Weight loss is a common concern for many people, and while making lifestyle changes like adjusting your diet and engaging in regular exercise are important, there are times when additional assistance may be necessary. Prescription medications can be a viable option for addressing obesity and promoting weight loss. These medications can be used alone or in conjunction with lifestyle modifications to help individuals reach and sustain a healthy weight. Several types of medications have been approved for the treatment of weight loss, including: Orlistat (Xenical): Orlistat functions by inhibiting the absorption of dietary fats. It is typically taken orally in capsule form. Doctors usually prescribe it to individuals with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher, or those with a BMI of 27 or higher who have other weight-related health issues such as high blood pressure or diabetes. Orlistat has been proven effective in aiding weight loss of up to 10% of body weight. Additionally, it has demonstrated benefits in reducing the risk of developing obesity-related health problems such as heart disease and diabetes. Liraglutide (Saxenda): Liraglutide belongs to a class of medications called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) agonists. It works by increasing the release of the hormone GLP-1, which helps regulate appetite and food intake. Liraglutide is administered through subcutaneous injections (under the skin) once a day. It is typically prescribed to individuals with a BMI of 30 or higher, or those with a BMI of 27 or higher who have other weight-related health problems such as high blood pressure or diabetes. Liraglutide has demonstrated effectiveness in aiding weight loss and maintaining a healthy weight. Bupropion/naltrexone (Contrave): Bupropion/naltrexone combines two drugs, bupropion, and naltrexone, to aid weight loss. Bupropion is an antidepressant that inhibits the reuptake of certain neurotransmitters like dopamine and norepinephrine, which can help reduce appetite. Naltrexone is an opioid antagonist that blocks the effects of opioids, thus helping to reduce food cravings. Bupropion/naltrexone is taken orally in pill form. It is typically prescribed to individuals with a BMI of 30 or higher, or those with a BMI of 27 or higher who have other weight-related health problems such as high blood pressure or diabetes. Bupropion/naltrexone has demonstrated effectiveness in aiding weight loss and maintaining a healthy weight.