Weight loss medications have gained popularity lately, but their effectiveness and safety have sparked debate in recent years.
Much of this controversy revolves around the side effects associated with well-known drugs like Ozempic and Mounjaro. As stated by the Obesity Medicine Association (OMA), ongoing research continues to evaluate the pros and cons of these medications.
Here are eight FDA-approved weight loss medications:
Ozempic and Wegovy
Ozempic and Wegovy, both brands of a medication called Semaglutide, have been prescribed for roughly two decades for type 2 diabetes. Recently, however, Ozempic has gained attention from individuals looking to lose weight, creating a shortage for those who need it for diabetes management.
Wegovy is the semaglutide formulation specifically approved for weight loss.
This medication mimics a natural hormone, GLP-1, which helps regulate blood sugar and promotes a feeling of fullness. However, the OMA has highlighted that gastrointestinal issues, particularly nausea, are the most frequently reported side effects. Other complaints can include fatigue, dizziness, headaches, bloating, burping, and heartburn.
Research from the American Medical Association has also indicated that GLP-1 agonists, like semaglutide, may increase the risk of pancreatitis, intestinal blockage, and gastroparesis.
Additionally, a study from January 2024 pointed out a potential rise in suicidal thoughts linked to semaglutide, though it noted that this risk is 49% to 73% lower than with other weight-loss medications.
Mounjaro and Zepbound
Mounjaro and Zepbound contain the active ingredient tilzepatide, with Mounjaro being approved for type 2 diabetes in 2017, while Zepbound was recently approved for treating obesity.
Tilzepatide also acts as a GLP-1 agonist, helping individuals feel full and adhere to weight loss regimens. Users often report mild side effects like nausea, constipation, and bloating, though more severe risks include kidney issues, gallbladder problems, and even hypoglycemia.
Moreover, Eli Lilly, the manufacturer, has warned that tilzepatide could lead to thyroid tumors or thyroid cancer. Therefore, patients are advised to monitor for symptoms like neck swelling or trouble swallowing.
Contrave
Contrave combines bupropion and naltrexone. Bupropion, commonly known by the brand name Wellbutrin, is an antidepressant known for reducing appetite, while naltrexone is often used for treating addiction.
Naltrexone works by blocking the pleasurable effects of addictive substances. The OMA cautions that patients with seizure disorders or those on opioids for chronic pain should avoid this medication.
Side effects can include nausea, vomiting, and insomnia among others.
Saxenda
Saxenda features liraglutide, which mimics hormones related to hunger and digestion. Approved for obesity treatment in 2017 for those over 12, its side effects are similar to semaglutide’s—nausea, vomiting, and headache, to name a few.
It can also elevate heart rates and affect pancreatic function.
QSYMIA
Qsymia combines phentermine and topiramate. Phentermine, the older of the two, has been in use since 1959 as an appetite suppressant but comes with significant risks, particularly for those with heart conditions or epilepsy.
Common side effects may include increased heart rate and headaches. Topiramate enhances phentermine’s appetite suppression effects but has its own risks, such as potential birth defects if taken during pregnancy.
Approved in 2021 for chronic weight management in adults, it was also greenlighted for those aged 12 and older with elevated body mass index.
Imcivree
Imcivree, branded as SetMelanotide, is intended for treating severe obesity linked to rare genetic disorders. It’s used for specific deficiencies that can lead to early onset obesity.
This drug targets an impaired pathway in the brain that helps regulate appetite. However, it doesn’t correct the underlying genetic causes of obesity.
Common side effects include injection site reactions, nausea, and headache, while serious ones might involve suicidal thoughts and severe allergic reactions.
