Mechanisms of Action
Anti-obesity drugs operate through one or more of the following mechanisms:
- Suppression of the appetite. Catecholamines and their derivatives (such as phentermine and other amphetamine-based drugs) are the main tools used for this, although other classes of drugs such as anti-depressants and mood stabilizers have been anecdotally used for appetite suppression (see: bupropion and topiramate). Drugs blocking the cannabinoid receptors may be a future strategy for appetite suppression.
- Increase of the body's metabolism.
- Interference with the body's ability to absorb specific nutrients in food. For example, Orlistat (also known as Xenical and Alli) blocks fat breakdown and thereby prevents fat absorption. The OTC fiber supplements glucomannan and guar gum have been used for the purpose of inhibiting digestion and lowering caloric absorption
Anorectics are primarily intended to suppress the appetite, but most of the drugs in this class also act as stimulants (dexedrine, e.g.), and patients have abused drugs "off label" to suppress appetite (e.g. digoxin).
Read more about this topic: Anti-obesity Medication
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