Weight loss medications are sometimes prescribed by doctors to help patients with certain conditions. But how effective are they and how well do they work? Dr. Chester Lan, resident doctor at Dr. Tan & Partners Clinic (DTAP Clinic) Holland Village, shares more.

To be used together with a healthy lifestyle and exercise routine

Says Dr. Lan, “Weight loss medications are not a panacea or guarantee for weight loss. They are meant to be used concurrently with diet control, exercise and behavioural change. The benefit of these medications is that when they are used in conjunction with diet control and exercise, the combination results in more rapid weight loss.”

This, in turn, impacts positively on the patients and as such, they will be more motivated to stick to their healthy habits when they see the kilos coming off.

Added Dr. Lan, “Weight loss medications are prescription medicine with side effects and risks. They require a doctor’s prescription.”

Recommended for overweight and obese patients 

The doctor recommends these only for patients who are obese (body mass index >30). As well, they may help those who are overweight (body mass index >27) and those with health conditions, high cholesterol, heart disease and high blood pressure, but these groups are considered on a case-by-case basis.

How weight loss medications work

There are different types of weight loss medications and they may function in different ways. 

Some weight loss medications work by decreasing appetite, while others increase feelings of fullness after a meal as well as increasing metabolism at the same time. Some do both, and others block absorption of macronutrients such as fat.

Should not expect immediate results

While such medications are effective to some degree, Dr. Lan stressed that patients should not use these medications and expect instant results.

Together with following a healthy and sustained diet, most patients will see results but genetics are also a factor in terms of how easy or difficult it is to lose weight.

Said Dr. Lan, “Your doctor should be able to work closely with you to determine the best medication and regime for you. The main aim of a healthy weight loss should not be for aesthetic reasons, but to help patients achieve a healthy body mass index and the health effects gained from it.”