While weight loss medications help in making you lose those unwanted pounds, it will only be effective if you cut on your calorie intake and burn it by sweating out. According to the experts, effective weight loss therapy involves a healthy eating program, regular exercise, and lifestyle change. Weight reduction is slow and gradual: anywhere from one-half to two pounds per week, even with the help of diet drugs.

For years, weight loss medications have been available only through prescription. Over-the-counter weight loss remedies are only considered dietary supplements and do not undergo the same type of rigorous FDA approval process. However, manufacturers of weight loss drugs must provide evidence that their products are safe and effective in order to get FDA approval.

In the prescription drug category, there are three products that are currently being sold in the market, namely:

Orlistat (Xenical) ? This drug is a fat blocker that prevents fat from being completely absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract, resulting in side effects such as oily discharge, fatty stool, gas, and/or inability to control bowel movements. Not only do these drugs block fat. They also have the potential to block other nutrients. Do not take your vitamin supplements at the same time with this medication.

Sibutramine (Meridia) ? This medication helps reduce hunger by working on the appetite control center in the brain that makes you feel full. It is usually prescribed for patients who struggle with cravings and have trouble knowing when to stop eating. It is often given to younger patients who are at low risk for heart disease. Side effects include dry mouth, constipation, and insomnia. It is not recommended for people with cardiovascular risk factors.

Phentermine ? This product is prescribed for patients who need to decrease their appetite. The medication helps reduce hunger pangs and, as a result, minimize the patient's excessive intake of food. Side effects may include depression, insomnia, increased blood pressure, irritability, and nervousness. In generic form, it is one of the least expensive of the medications but has been on the market the longest. It is also the most widely used weight loss drug today.

Recently, however, a new drug called Alli came out in the market. It is actually the same as Xenical but it is only at half the strength, making it the only over-the-counter weight loss medication.

Options for weight loss medication may be limited but it is possible to lose weight on prescribed medications used to treat other conditions such as depression, seizures, and diabetes. However, insurance coverage for these medications may vary. Some companies will cover them completely, some partially, and some not at all.

Aside from slimming pills, pharmacies are also flooded with a wide variety of dietary supplements which most experts give little credence to due to lack of medical evidence about its safety, effectiveness, and performance claims. Dietary supplements should never be confused with weight loss medications.

Experts suggest that nothing beats the natural health benefits found in food. A healthy lifestyle that involves eating the right kind of food, engaging in a regular fitness program, and getting enough sleep will greatly enhance the effects of using a weight loss medication.