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What Are the Best Weight Loss Pills?

By Alyse Thompson, M.D.

February 20, 2025

Ask A Pharmacist

Prescription Drugs, Your Health & Wellness

What Are the Best Weight Loss Pills?

Finding the Best Weight Loss Pills: What You Need to Know

Many people consider weight loss pills as a way to help them achieve their weight loss goals. However, choosing the right one can be overwhelming with so many options. For many, the best medicine for weight loss depends on individual health needs and goals. This comprehensive guide will help you determine the best weight loss pills, including prescription and over-the-counter options, to help you make an informed decision.

Who can take medication to lose weight?

In general, weight loss medications aren't for everyone. Healthcare providers may consider prescribing weight loss pills if you:

Have a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher (classified as obesity)
Have a BMI of 27 or higher with weight-related health conditions like high blood pressure or type 2 diabetes.
Have tried lifestyle changes without success to lose weight

Weight loss medications are typically part of a comprehensive weight management plan that includes a healthy diet and regular physical activity. The best weight loss pills for women and men complement these lifestyle changes and help you achieve sustainable results.

How effective are prescription weight loss pills?

Prescription weight loss medications can be effective when you combine them with changes in your lifestyle. Even a small amount of weight loss may help improve your health, such as improved blood pressure, blood sugar levels, and cholesterol. There are fat-burning pills that actually work. However, you should have realistic expectations. Weight loss medication results can vary from one person to another. Some people may experience dramatic weight loss, while others may see more modest results.

Pros and cons of weight loss drugs

Here are some benefits of using weight loss drugs:

The best weight loss drugs have been scientifically tested.
The best weight loss drugs can improve overall health.
There are various types of weight loss medications available.
They can provide a boost to help build healthy habits.
Your doctor can monitor your progress to ensure the medication is working safely.
Some people experience significant weight loss with these medications.

Here are some negatives of using weight loss drugs:

Effectiveness can vary from person to person.
Weight may return if the medication is stopped.
Like any medicine, side effects are possible.
Some individuals can’t take these medications due to health conditions or interactions with other drugs.
The top weight loss pills may be costly, especially without insurance.
Medications must be taken as prescribed doses to prevent toxicity.
Some newer medications lack long-term study results.

FDA-Approved weight loss drugs

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved several prescription medications for long-term weight management. These FDA approved weight loss drugs have been thoroughly tested for their safety and how well they work, making them some of the best diet pills for weight loss available today. Many of these medications are considered the best weight loss medicine by healthcare professionals. Individuals can enhance their weight loss journey by combining these medications with lifestyle changes and achieve sustainable results.

Contrave (naltrexone-bupropion)

Contrave is a combination medication that targets pathways in your brain involved in hunger and cravings. It is made up of naltrexone, which is used to treat alcohol and opioid dependence, and bupropion, an antidepressant that can help people stop smoking. This dual-action formula may be helpful for those who struggle with emotional eating. In addition to helping control appetite, Contrave may improve mood and motivation, making it easier to stick to a weight loss plan. Side effects can include nausea, constipation, headache, dizziness, dry mouth, and insomnia.

Xenical (orlistat)

Xenical works differently from other weight loss medications. It blocks the absorption of dietary fat in your intestines. This means that about 30% of the fat you eat isn't absorbed by your body. Xenical is also available in a lower-dose, over-the-counter version called Alli. Xenical can lead to noticeable weight loss, especially when combined with a low-fat diet. However, if you eat high-fat meals, you should be aware of potential gastrointestinal side effects, such as oily stools.

Phentermine (Adipex-P)

Phentermine is a medication used to help decrease appetite and increase energy levels. It's part of a class of drugs called sympathomimetic amines. It works by stimulating the brain to reduce hunger and cravings. Phentermine is usually prescribed for short-term use, up to 12 weeks, as part of a weight loss program that includes a balanced diet and regular exercise. Some common side effects include increased heart rate, insomnia, and dry mouth.

Qsymia (phentermine-topiramate)

Qsymia combines two medications: phentermine, which suppresses appetite, and topiramate, an anti-seizure and migraine prevention drug that can also promote weight loss. This combination can be very effective for weight loss. Patients using Qsymia often experience significant reductions in hunger which can lead to a decrease in calorie intake. Side effects include dry mouth, constipation, tingling sensations, and insomnia.

Ozempic (semaglutide)

Ozempic is a GLP-1 receptor agonist medication that mimics a natural hormone called GLP-1. This hormone helps regulate appetite and food intake. It mimics the hormone's action that helps regulate appetite and blood sugar levels. Ozempic has shown that it may be effective in helping people who are overweight or obese to achieve significant weight loss. Ozempic is injected weekly and shows impressive results in clinical trials. Side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and low blood sugar.

Wegovy (semaglutide)

Wegovy is one of the newest FDA-approved weight loss medications. Like Ozempic, it is given weekly by injection. In clinical trials, Wegovy has shown impressive results, with many patients losing 15% or more of their initial body weight, making it one of the top weight-loss medications on the market. Some people notice improved control over their eating habits. Side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and low blood sugar.

Saxenda (liraglutide)

Saxenda is an injectable medication that also mimics GLP-1. This hormone helps regulate appetite and food intake. Injected once daily, Saxenda can lead to significant weight loss in many patients. It is also used to treat type 2 diabetes under the name Victoza. Saxenda can make you feel fuller after meals. This can help reduce the amount of food that you eat. Also, Saxenda may have other benefits, such as improving blood sugar levels. Side effects can include nausea, constipation, headache, dizziness, dry mouth, and insomnia.

Zepbound (tirzepatide)

Zepbound mimics two hormones in your body called GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) and GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide) that control hunger and blood sugar. They play important roles in regulating appetite, digestion, and blood sugar levels. Zepbound makes you feel full faster and longer while helping your body manage blood sugar levels. Common side effects include nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, constipation, and abdominal pain.

Plenity (hydrogel)

Plenity is a weight management device that offers a different approach than traditional weight loss medications. It is made from naturally produced compounds (cellulose and citric acid) and works by expanding in the stomach. This creates a feeling of fullness that helps you reduce your food intake. Plenity is taken orally in capsule form before meals. Since it's not absorbed into the bloodstream, you may avoid many side effects that can occur with other weight loss drugs. Side effects are generally mild and include issues such as bloating, gas, and a feeling of fullness.

What Is the Most Effective Weight Loss Medication?

Weight loss medications can vary in effectiveness from person to person, but some options deliver strong results. However, the best medicines for weight loss for one person may not be the best for another. Semaglutide (Wegovy, Ozempic) is one of the top weight loss medications available today. Many patients have achieved significant weight loss. Other options include phentermine-topiramate (Qsymia) and liraglutide (Saxenda), which also have had positive effects on many patients. Semaglutide is more effective overall. The success of these medications can depend on individual factors, such as your medical history and any side effects you may experience.

Drug Name	Drug Class	Mechanism of Action	Common Side Effects	WellRx Savings Card
Contrave (naltrexone-bupropion)	Combination drug	Targets brain pathways involved in hunger and cravings	Nausea, constipation, headache, dizziness, dry mouth, insomnia	Link Out
Xenical (orlistat)	Lipase inhibitor	Blocks fat absorption	Oily stools, flatulence	Link Out
Phentermine (Adipex-P)	Sympathomimetic amine	Suppresses appetite, increases energy	Increased heart rate, insomnia, dry mouth	Link Out
Qsymia (Adipex-P)	Combination drug	Suppresses appetite, promotes weight loss	Dry mouth, constipation, tingling sensations, insomnia	Link Out
Zepbound (tirzepadide)	GLP-1 receptor agonist	Regulates appetite, blood sugar	Nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, constipation, and abdominal pain	Link Out
Wegovy (semaglutide)	GLP-1 receptor agonist	Regulates appetite, blood sugar	Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, low blood sugar	Link Out
Ozempic (semaglutide)	GLP-1 receptor agonist	Regulates appetite, blood sugar	Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, low blood sugar	Link Out
Saxenda (liraglutide)	GLP-1 receptor agonist	Regulates appetite, blood sugar	Nausea, constipation, headache, dizziness, dry mouth, insomnia	Link Out
Plenity (hydrogel)	Medical device (not a drug)	Fills the stomach, leading to feeling full	Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, gas, bloating, constipation	Link Out

Table 1: Some common FDA-approved weight loss medications.

What are the best over-the-counter weight loss pills?

While prescription medications often offer the strongest weight loss effects, several over-the-counter options can help too. Here are some top rated weight loss pills:

Alli (orlistat)

Alli is the over-the-counter version of Xenical, containing a lower dose of the active ingredient orlistat. It works by blocking fat absorption in the gut.

Glucomannan

Glucomannan is a natural fiber that expands in your stomach, helping you feel full and potentially reducing your calorie intake.

Green Tea Extract

Green tea extracts contain caffeine and epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), a compound with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects that may boost metabolism and fat burning.

Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA)

CLA is a type of fatty acid that can help reduce body fat and increase lean body mass.

Caffeine

Caffeine can boost metabolism and increase fat burning, a common ingredient in many weight loss supplements. Remember that while these are some of the best over the counter diet pills, their effects are generally more modest than prescription medications.

How should you take pills to help lose weight?

Following your healthcare provider's instructions is crucial when taking weight loss pills. Here are some general guidelines:

Don't take more than recommended to lose weight faster.
Some medications should be taken before meals, while others should be at bedtime.
Take your medicines at the same time each day to maintain steady levels in your body.
The best weight loss pills for women and men are most effective when combined with a healthy diet and regular exercise.
Even the best prescription weight loss pills take several weeks to start seeing significant results.
Keep track of any side effects and report them to your healthcare provider.
Your provider may need to adjust your dosage or switch medications based on your progress and any side effects.

How long does it take for diet pills to work?

The timeline for seeing results from weight loss pills can vary depending on the specific medication and individual factors. Remember that even the best pill for weight loss will not work the same for everyone. Generally:

Some people may start noticing changes in appetite or cravings within the first few weeks.
Visible weight loss often begins within 4-8 weeks of starting medication.
Maximum effects are typically seen after 3-6 months of consistent use.

It's important to note that weight loss pills are not a quick fix. They work best as part of a long-term weight management strategy that includes healthy eating and regular physical activity.

Alternatives to diet pills

If you're looking for alternatives to weight loss pills, consider these natural remedies and treatments.

Dietary changes

Eat whole foods, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Reducing processed foods and sugar can significantly impact weight loss.

Regular exercise

Try to get at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity each week. Incorporating strength training can also help build muscle and boost metabolism.

Behavioral therapy

Get support from a therapist or support group to address emotional eating and learn healthier habits. Behavioral changes are important for long-term weight management.

How to prevent weight gain

Maintaining a healthy weight requires ongoing effort. Even with the help of effective weight loss medicine, a comprehensive program is essential. Here are some effective ways that may help you keep the weight off.

Regular physical activity

Add exercise to your daily routine. Aim for a mix of cardio and strength training to keep your metabolism active.

Mindful eating

Pay attention to hunger cues and avoid emotional eating. Practicing mindfulness can help you make healthier food choices.

Set realistic goals

Set achievable weight management goals to stay motivated. Small, incremental changes can lead to significant results over time.

The Bottom Line

When looking for the best pills to lose weight, remember that what works best for one person may not work for someone else. However, there are diet pills that actually work. The most effective way to lose weight often combines the right medication with lifestyle changes, including a healthy diet and regular exercise. Always consult a healthcare professional to determine the best weight loss products. Ready to start your weight loss journey? ScriptSave® WellRx can help you save on prescription weight loss medications and other health-related products. Sign up for your free WellRx account today and start enjoying discounts of up to 80% on your prescriptions!* *DISCOUNT ONLY – NOT INSURANCE. The program is administered by Medical Security Card Company, LLC. [CTA: Click here to sign up for your free ScriptSave WellRx account and start saving on your weight loss medications today!]

FAQs

What is the safest weight loss medication?

The safest weight loss medication depends on your unique health situation. Orlistat (Xenical/Alli) is generally considered safe since it works in your gut and isn't absorbed into your whole body. But all medications have potential side effects, so it's best to talk to your healthcare provider about what's right for you.

Are there any weight loss pills that actually work fast?

While some medications may help you notice results within a few weeks, losing weight in a healthy, sustainable way takes time. Prescription meds like phentermine can lead to rapid weight loss at first, but they're usually only approved for short-term use because of potential side effects and risk of dependence. The most effective weight loss pills often work gradually for long-term success that lasts.

Are there any fat-burning pills that actually work?

Yes, some pills can help boost fat burning. Caffeine and green tea extract have been shown to increase metabolism and fat burning. Prescription meds like Qsymia and Contrave can also effectively reduce body fat when combined with diet and exercise.

How do weight loss pills work?

Weight loss pills work in different ways. Some medications are appetite suppressants, some are fat blockers, and others are metabolism and fat-burning boosters. Prescription medications that act on the areas of the brain responsible for hunger and feeling full are also common.

What are the risks of pills for weight loss?

Weight loss pills can have risks, including digestive issues, faster heart rate, insomnia or excessive sleeping, and mood changes. Some may interfere with other medications or worsen certain health conditions.

Can you take medication for weight loss during pregnancy?

Most weight loss medications are not recommended during pregnancy because of potential risks to the baby. If you're pregnant or planning a pregnancy, focus on eating a balanced diet and getting appropriate exercise as your doctor recommends.

What is the best weight loss medication known for suppressing appetite?

Phentermine, part of the weight loss drug Qsymia, which contains topiramate, is especially effective in reducing hunger. Medications such as Wegovy (semaglutide) and Saxenda (liraglutide), which are GLP-1 receptor agonists, cause you to consume less food due to reduced appetite. If you're wondering what is the best diet pill for appetite suppression, these medications are commonly prescribed to help with weight management. Alyse Thompson, M.D., is a freelance medical writer who has experience caring for patients in both primary care and urgent care settings. She also has a master’s degree in basic medical science. She has managed acute and chronic diseases and has taken part in medical and pharmaceutical research. Dr. Thompson’s focus has been on surgery, general medicine, weight loss, infectious disease, medical devices, pharmaceutical research, and medical apps.