Weight loss drugs refer to specific medication, produced and marketed, for reduction or control of weight. They work by either reducing appetite, blocking absorption of calories or by altering the body's metabolism of energy.

Some individuals try to control body weight with laxatives or diuretics but there is no evidence that they have an impact on body fat and they have a number of serious side effects particularly on disorders of blood chemistry.

Safety and potential side effects of weight loss drugs represent one of main issues regarding their widespread availability. It is also important to understand that the explosion of medical research in this area has not yet generated such a wide range of clinical products with clearly documented health benefits. Serious concerns about the cardiac and mental health safety of some appetite suppressants has resulted in the suspension of a number of agents previously marketed.