One of the glaring problems facing society is the rise in the number of individuals who are overweight or obese. This article is to inform the readers about the options of using weight loss supplements in order to reduce their weight. These weight supplement drugs may be effective but they must be taken only after consulting one doctor about the problem. The U.S Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have approved certain weight loss supplements, few of which are listed here.

They are:

1. Xenical and Alli: Xenical and Alli are two drugs are related to each other as both of them affect the weight of an individual in similar manners. Alli is basically the same as Xenical except it is made up of smaller dosage of the same ingredients. The two chemicals inhibit the absorption of fat by the body from the food that is taken in. The side effects of the drugs if taken in excess can include oily stool, nausea, and loose motion. These should be taken after consulting a doctor. Unlike Alli which can be bought which can be bought at one own discretion, Xenical requires a doctor prescription before it can be purchased.

2. Meridia: Meridia stops the very reason of over weight problem at its root i.e. it affects the appetite of the individual. The drug is useful as it inhibits the urge to eat food and is normally used when the person is on a low calorie diet and on an exercise regime. The side effects of using this drug range from dry mouth, nausea, constipation, drowsiness and headache. It is available at the chemist at the prescription of the doctor. Sibutramine is an example of meridia containing product.

3. Phentermine: Phentermine is another example of a drug that assists in losing excess weight. This is a powerful yet effective medication used by those who have tried other methods of losing weight but have failed. It also acts as an appetite suppressant. The various side effects of using phentermine include diarrhea, constipation and also the individual may find difficulty in sleeping. It can also lead to withdrawal like symptoms. The drug is available only at the prescription of the concerned doctors.