Facts About Prescribed Medication to Increase Metabolism

Metabolic health is becoming increasingly important to many people trying to control their weight and sustain ideal energy levels in today’s health-conscious world. The term “metabolism” describes the set of chemical reactions that take place inside the body to transform food and liquids into energy needed for daily activities. While some people struggle with slower metabolic rates and frequently look for medication to increase metabolism, others are born with higher metabolisms. In addition to lifestyle choices like nutrition and exercise, prescribed drugs are occasionally used to speed up metabolism. 

Drugs that increase metabolism function by affecting the body’s metabolic functions, such as energy expenditure and nutrient storage. They consist of metformin, beta-3 agonists, bupropion-naltrexone combos, GLP-1 receptor antagonists such as liraglutide, appetite suppressants like Phentermine, thyroid medications like levothyroxine, and metformin.

The basal metabolic rate is regulated by thyroid hormones, whereas appetite suppressants increase energy levels and decrease appetite by stimulating the central nervous system. Liraglutide is one of the GLP-1 receptor antagonists that helps treat type 2 diabetes and promote weight loss.  

Metformin improves insulin sensitivity and decreases the generation of glucose in the liver, which indirectly helps with metabolism and reduces blood sugar. Brown adipose tissue is stimulated by beta-3 agonists, which increases thermogenesis. Because of their specialized indications and possible negative effects, these drugs should only be taken under medical supervision.

This post explores the facts about prescription medication to increase metabolism. It covers the risks, benefits, and usage context of these drugs. 

Understanding Medication to Increase Metabolism

The culmination of all the chemical processes the body goes through to stay alive is metabolism. There are two primary steps involved:

1. Catabolism: The process of dissolving molecules to release energy.
2. Anabolism: Creating the molecules the body needs to repair and operate.

The rate at which the body utilizes energy to sustain vital processes like breathing and heart rate while at rest is known as the basal metabolic rate, or BMR. Age, heredity, muscle mass, and hormone levels are a few of the variables that affect BMR. The goal of prescribed drugs is to speed up these metabolic processes, frequently by controlling hormones.

Prescribed Medication to Increase Metabolism

Many drugs can affect metabolism, frequently inadvertently, by treating underlying medical conditions. The following is a list of frequently prescribed medication to increase metabolism:

1. Thyroid Hormones

Hypothyroidism, a disorder in which the thyroid gland produces insufficient thyroid hormones, is treated with prescriptions for thyroid hormones, specifically levothyroxine (Synthroid, Euthyrox). The hormones produced by the thyroid are essential for controlling metabolism. Low levels cause the metabolism to slow down, which can result in symptoms including weariness and weight gain.

• Intended Effects: Levothyroxine replenishes the body’s low amounts of thyroid hormone, bringing energy and metabolism back to normal and preventing hypothyroidism-related weight gain.
• Risks: Excessive weight loss, anxiety, and elevated heart rate are some of the signs of hyperthyroidism that can result from overuse or improper dosage.

1. Phentermine

A sympathomimetic amine and appetite suppressant, phentermine, as prescription weight loss pills, are given for the temporary treatment of obesity. It causes the sympathetic nervous system to become active, which decreases hunger signals and releases norepinephrine.

• Intended Effects: When taken in conjunction with diet and exercise, phentermine might indirectly boost metabolism by suppressing hunger and elevating energy levels. This can lead to weight loss.
• Risks: If taken improperly, phentermine may result in dependence, elevated blood pressure, anxiety, and sleeplessness.

1. Liraglutide (Saxenda)

Liraglutide, marketed as Saxenda, was first licensed for the treatment of type 2 diabetes (as Victoza). Afterward, it was also approved for weight loss as the weight loss pills that actually work fast. It is a GLP-1 receptor agonist that slows down the emptying of the stomach and helps control insulin levels.

• Intended Effects: Liraglutide helps patients lose weight and indirectly increases metabolism by controlling insulin and decreasing appetite.
• Risks: Nausea, diarrhea, and a possible pancreatitis risk are among the side effects.

1. Bupropion-Naltrexone (Contrave)

In Contrave, naltrexone—an opioid antagonist used in addiction treatment—and bupropion—an antidepressant and tool for quitting smoking—are combined. When combined, these two have an impact on the brain’s hunger center, which lessens cravings and makes it the best pill to lose belly fat.

• Intended Effects: Contrave is thought to reduce appetite and raise energy expenditure by acting on the hypothalamus, which improves metabolism.
• Risks: Nausea, headaches, sleeplessness, and a higher chance of having suicidal thoughts are among the side effects.

Factors Influencing Prescription Medication to Increase Metabolism

Not everyone should take metabolism-boosting medications. They are typically prescribed, taking into account the following criteria about particular health issues or weight loss medication injection plans:

Underlying Medical Conditions: Obesity, type 2 diabetes, and hypothyroidism are prevalent medical disorders that may alter metabolism when treated with medication.

Patient History: Prior to the prescription of medication to increase metabolism, a comprehensive evaluation of the patient’s medical history, including cardiovascular health and psychological disorders, is required.

Lifestyle Factors: To guarantee a thorough treatment plan, medical professionals take into account the patient’s food, exercise routine, sleep patterns, and stress levels.

Possible Drug Reactions: Medication to increase metabolism may interact with over-the-counter or prescription medications. For example, taking some appetite suppressants along with SSRIs may pose a risk. 

Lifestyle Changes Complementing Prescription Medication to Increase Metabolism

Prescription drugs can help boost metabolism for certain diseases, but they work best when combined with lifestyle modifications.

Dietary Adjustments: Meals that are well-balanced, low in refined sugar, and high in fiber, protein, and healthy fats aid in the regulation of metabolism.

Frequent Exercise: Lean muscle mass is promoted by cardio and strength training activities, which raise BMR.

Sufficient Sleep: Sufficient sleep lowers stress hormones, which may impair metabolism.

Stress Management: Hormonal imbalances that cause weight gain can be avoided by reducing long-term stress.

Conclusion: Type 2 diabetes, obesity, and hypothyroidism can all be effectively managed with prescription medication to increase metabolism. They frequently exert their indirect effects by controlling hormones, stifling hunger, or lowering blood sugar. However, because of their possible adverse effects, these drugs should only be taken under a doctor’s supervision. A comprehensive plan that incorporates lifestyle modifications and medical supervision guarantees a secure and efficient method of enhancing metabolism and general well-being. In the end, the choice to take these drugs should be well considered to weigh the advantages above the disadvantages.