From the Guidelines
Weight loss medications such as fluoxetine, phentermine, and orlistat can be effective for women during menopause, with fluoxetine showing a pooled weight loss of 4.74 kg at 6 months and 3.15 kg at 12 months, as reported in studies 1. When considering weight loss medications during menopause, it's essential to evaluate the efficacy and safety of various options.
- Fluoxetine, at higher doses (60 mg) than those used for depression (20 mg), has been shown to result in significant weight loss, with a pooled weight loss of 4.74 kg at 6 months and 3.15 kg at 12 months 1.
- Phentermine, in combination with lifestyle interventions, has been associated with modest weight loss, with a pooled mean weight loss of 3.6 kg 1.
- Orlistat, which blocks fat absorption, has been shown to result in a pooled mean weight loss of 2.59 kg at 6 months and 2.89 kg at 12 months 1. It's crucial to note that these medications are most effective when combined with lifestyle modifications, including diet and exercise.
- Menopause-related weight gain often occurs due to hormonal changes that slow metabolism and increase abdominal fat storage, making these targeted medications particularly helpful during this transition.
- Before starting any weight loss medication, women should consult with their healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate option based on their medical history, current medications, and specific health goals.
From the FDA Drug Label
The provided drug labels do not directly address the use of weight loss medications during menopause.
The FDA drug label does not answer the question.
From the Research
Weight Loss Medications for Menopausal Women
The following weight loss medications are recommended for women during menopause:
- Orlistat
- Sibutramine
- Rimonabant 2
- Metformin and exenatide, which can help with weight loss and also reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes 2
Lifestyle Changes for Weight Loss
In addition to medication, lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise are crucial for weight loss during menopause:
- Reducing energy intake and increasing energy expenditure can help with weight loss 3
- Behavioral lifestyle intervention, which uses behavioral techniques for counseling corrective dietary and physical activity practices, can help achieve sustainable weight loss outcomes 4
- Nutrition counseling and intervention can help change dietary habits during perimenopause and reduce the risk of diseases such as obesity, metabolic syndrome, and cardiovascular diseases 5
Health Risks Associated with Weight Gain during Menopause
Weight gain during menopause can increase the risk of various health problems, including: