However, these medications may come with cardiovascular risks.
This article discusses the cardiovascular risks and benefits associated with weight loss drugs.
However, many people with obesity have found it difficult to achieve adequate weight loss through lifestyle changes alone.
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This is where weight loss drugs can help.
However, as with any drug, there are side effects to consider.
For some people, the benefits of weight-loss drugs outweigh the potential risks.
It is marketed under the brand name Victoza.
However, Saxenda also delays gastric emptying, which may aid in weight loss.
Studies looking at the effects of Saxenda at the 3-milligram dose suggest it may provide similar cardiovascular health benefits.
Wegovy, like Saxenda, is a (GLP-1) receptor agonist.
Wegovy should be used in addition to a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity.
Together in the extended-release tablet of Contrave, however, the two medications combine to cause weight loss.
Both of these medications have previously been found to have side effects that involve the heart and cardiovascular system.
In particular, the effects of Contrave on heart rate and blood pressure appear to be unfavorable.
In clinical trials, Contrave was found to increase both blood pressure and heart rate.
Some studies have suggested that Contrave does not increase the risk of major adverse cardiac events.
Like Contrave, it also contains two medications within one pill: phentermine and topiramate.
In 2022, Qsymia was approved for used in patients over 12 years old.
Phentermine by itself can suppress appetite and increase bodily energy expenditure, thereby resulting in weight loss.
Qsymia combines both phentermine and topiramate in a single pill and at lower doses than either drug used alone.
Depending on the medication, side effects may include increased heart rate and blood pressure.
They may be able to recommend a different medication or treatment plan that works best for you.
U.S. Food and Drug Administration.FDA approves weight management drug for patients aged 12 and older.
U.S. Food and Drug Administration.WEGOVY (semaglutide) injection.
U.S. Food and Drug Administration.FDA approves treatment for chronic weight management inpediatric patients aged 12 years and older.
U.S. Food and Drug Administration.QSYMIA (phentermine and topiramate extended-release).
