It's important to consider, however, that weight loss achieved in a research setting may be greater than in actual practice. Also, possible side effects and adverse reactions to weight-loss pills can affect the treatment outcome.
A reasonable expectation, therefore, is that prescription weight-loss pills may be beneficial, but they won't be magical. They do not work for everyone, and their benefit may be modest. And researchers know much less about the potential benefits and risks of over-the-counter weight-loss products.