Looking to shed pounds after 50? Learn how effective weight-loss medications like Qsymia, Contrave, and Alli can help you achieve your goals.
What Are the Best Weight-Loss Pills for Women Over 50?
Many women over 50 find that traditional dieting and exercise alone are not enough to achieve their desired weight loss. Fortunately, there are several effective weight-loss medications designed specifically to help women in this age group. According to Dr. Caroline Apovian, a professor at Harvard Medical School, some of the best weight-loss pills for women over 50 that actually work can yield significant results, making a notable difference when combined with a healthy lifestyle.
Qsymia: The Strongest Prescription Medication Available
One of the top recommendations from experts like Dr. Apovian is Qsymia, a prescription weight-loss pill combining phentermine and topiramate. This medication works by reducing appetite and subduing cravings, particularly effective for those pesky late-night urges that challenge your weight-loss efforts. Clinical trials have shown that users can lose up to 10% of their body weight when using this medication alongside a structured diet plan and exercise routine.
Qsymia is FDA-approved for long-term use, which boosts its appeal as a sustained solution for weight management, especially for women with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or more, or 27 and up with accompanying health issues such as hypertension or type 2 diabetes. The medication is administered daily, beginning with low dosages that gradually increase. While many find it effective, potential side effects include dry mouth, tingling sensations, and constipation. Despite some doctors opting to prescribe its constituents separately to cut costs, Dr. Apovian emphasizes that the extended-release formulation in the branded version enhances its effectiveness.
Contrave: Target Cravings and Emotional Eating
For women battling cravings and emotional eating, Contrave presents itself as an appealing option. By combining bupropion, an antidepressant that fosters feelings of fullness, and naltrexone, a medication typically used to combat addiction, Contrave targets the brain’s reward system. This dual action can help regulate the urges often leading to overeating. Studies suggest that users lose between 6 to 9% of their body weight with this medication, depending heavily on supporting lifestyle changes.
Doctors typically prescribe Contrave to be taken twice a day, advising a gradual ramp-up over four weeks to improve tolerance. Possible side effects may include nausea, headaches, and insomnia, yet patients often find that the benefits outweigh these drawbacks. To maximize its potential, sticking with the branded version of Contrave is recommended due to its tailored formulation.
Phentermine: A Short-Term Solution to Kickstart Weight Loss
An alternative for those seeking a short-term weight-loss boost is phentermine, often prescribed for brief periods, typically up to three months. Dr. Apovian points out that phentermine promotes significant appetite suppression, especially in its higher doses (37.5 mg). Women may also respond more positively to lower doses, such as Lomaira, which contains 8 mg of phentermine as a milder option.
It is crucial to note that phentermine is not suitable for everyone, particularly as it can lead to increased heart rate and blood pressure. Caution is advised, and potential users must have an in-person consultation with their healthcare provider before obtaining a prescription.
Alli: The Only Over-the-Counter Option Approved by the FDA
For those who prefer an over-the-counter solution, Alli is the only weight-loss pill FDA-approved for over-the-counter sale. This medication helps block the absorption of fat in your diet, allowing users to still enjoy meals while managing their weight effectively. When paired with a low-fat diet, users can expect to lose around 3 to 5% of their body weight using Alli regularly.
Containing orlistat, this lower-dose version of the prescription drug Xenical works by inhibiting the absorption of approximately 25 to 30% of dietary fats. Side effects are predominantly gastrointestinal, making it important for users to adhere to a diet lower in fat to alleviate discomfort. As with any medication, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider to determine if Alli aligns with your health goals.
Consulting Your Doctor: Preparing for a Conversation on Weight Loss Pills
If you're curious about these weight-loss options during your journey, initiating a conversation with your doctor is vital. Dr. Apovian suggests approaching your provider with specific inquiries about weight-loss medications such as Qsymia, Contrave, and Alli. Additionally, she emphasizes that these medications are not standalone solutions; they achieve optimal results only when combined with dietary considerations and consistent exercise.
Those looking for tailored guidance should also consider seeking an obesity medicine specialist if their general practitioner is not familiar with these medications. The right guidance will help you avoid loss of muscle mass while developing healthy eating habits.
In conclusion, there are numerous effective prescription and over-the-counter medications available designed to assist women over 50 in their weight-loss journeys. Consult with your healthcare provider to explore options like Qsymia for appetite suppression, Contrave for managing cravings, phentermine for temporary boosts, or Alli as a safe over-the-counter alternative. Choosing the right medication, combined with healthy lifestyle changes, can lead to sustainable weight loss and improved overall health.