I have dieted forever and it just doesn't work for me. My doctor and I have briefly discussed prescription weight loss pills before and I think I am ready to try that route. I would just like to hear what you all think about the drug route...

I am a 19 year old female who is 5'6" and 250lbs. I am a college student and I lead an active lifestyle with a decently healthy diet considering I live in a dorm. I think the majority of my weight problem is genetic and though I've dieted since I was a kid, I haven't been able to even get within a range of my goal weight.

I have read up on XENICAL, does it actually work or is it all hype? Is it worth the side effects?

The side effects don't sound all that inviting, but I have mildly elevated blood pressure and am taking Celexa (a antidepressant/reuptake inhibitor) and am afraid of medications that would interact or complicate these. Does anyone have suggestions or alternatives?

Oh, Trylyn,
I feel so bad for you! I know how disappointing it can be to feel you are giving it your best effort and still getting no where. I, too, have been overweight almost all my life. Everyone, and I mean everyone, in my family is significantly overweight. Genetics does have a part in your struggle, no doubt. But, maybe you just haven't hit the program that would work for you. Some people require very controlled menus, some need a lot of variety. Some people do best on low carb, some on Weight Watchers. Everyone must choose for themselves what will work because we are all different in our body chemistry and personalities, but I always hope people take the prescription weight loss medication as the very last resort.

When I was 14 years old, I was very distraught about my weight. My mother took me to a doctor who gave me pills to take. It was not just speed, although I suspect at least one of those pills was, but I sincerely believe I have had lasting physical effects from taking those medications, whatever they were. I got results, but I obviously gained the weight back, plus some, and wish now that I had never taken them.

College life is a very difficult enviroment for healthy eating. After all, part of the experience is exam cramming late at night while you eat pizza and soda (okay, beer for most people - lol). Whatever you decide, I wish you the best. You've taken an important step being here at DT for support. Good luck to you!
Kerri

Hi! It is frustrating. You say you're active... could you be more specific? Also, give us some idea of what you eat in a day? Genetics do play a part in which way you're body wants to look, but that just means you have to work that much harder at it.

I personally don't think that pills are ever the answer. They're just a short-term fix.

Give us a few more details as to what you normally eat and do in a day, and maybe we can help you spot some trouble spots! :rose: