Sanorex (Mazindol) is a prescription weight loss medication available in Japan, primarily through beauty clinics. As an appetite suppressant, it has shown effectiveness in supporting weight loss by curbing hunger and improving adherence to diet plans. Many people, including myself, have found it useful during weight loss journeys, but it is important to note that Mazindol comes with significant risks and potential side effects.
While Sanorex can aid in weight reduction, particularly in cases of obesity, it is essential to consult a doctor before considering it as part of a weight loss strategy. This medication is often prescribed in a controlled manner, requiring regular check-ins and monitoring to ensure safety, particularly for those with pre-existing health conditions or those on other medications.
If you're considering diet medications like Sanorex in Japan, it's crucial to weigh the benefits against the possible risks. This guide covers everything you need to know about Mazindol, including how it works, its potential side effects, and important precautions before using it for weight loss.
For those interested in weight loss medication in Japan, Sanorex (Mazindol) offers a potential solution, but it should always be used with careful medical supervision.
Does Sanorex Work For Weight Loss?
Sanorex was effective for me during the short-term periods I used it. However, as with any prescription drug, its effects vary depending on the individual. The most noticeable results occurred during the first three months of use, with continued progress after a one-month break, but eventually, my body began to plateau. Over the course of one year, I lost approximately 20 kg, reducing my BMI from 36.9 (obese) to 29.2 (overweight).
My schedule for use was as follows: 3 months on, 1 month off, followed by another 3 months on, 1 month off, and another 3 months on. After this cycle, it seemed like my body had fully adjusted to the medication, and my weight plateaued.
While the rate of weight loss slowed after the initial few months, continuing to use Sanorex helped me develop healthier eating habits, such as controlling portion sizes. The emotional aspects of eating were almost entirely removed during the first 6 to 7 months. Once my body adapted to the dosage, the physical sensations of hunger were still subdued, but the emotional triggers for overeating became less controlled.
The most significant change I experienced was a shift in my mindset. The mental barriers I had around dieting were reduced, allowing me to better understand my nutritional needs. I ate only the recommended portions and rarely felt the urge to indulge in cravings.
Over time, it became easier to resist the emotional triggers associated with eating. Sanorex helped me uncover my comfort-eating triggers, reintroducing me to the physical cues I had been ignoring for years. I realized that I had often eaten past the point of fullness or avoided meals when I was actually hungry, leading to overeating later in the day.
Like any weight loss solution, Sanorex is not a miracle drug. It’s important to recognize that consistent effort in maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle is key. Simply using the medication won’t lead to lasting weight loss without changes to your daily eating habits. In my case, altering my eating habits significantly played a crucial role in my weight loss success.
While Sanorex was not a "magic pill," it certainly felt like one at times. It helped ease the emotional attachments I had to food and made it possible for me to stick to my meal plans without the overwhelming desire to overeat. For someone like me, who has used food as a form of comfort, Sanorex provided a way to separate the emotional and physical aspects of eating. It became a valuable tool in reforming my habits, not just in losing weight.
How Much Does Sanorex Cost in Japan?
If Sanorex is not prescribed by your doctor and covered by health insurance, a 28-day supply can cost around 24,000 JPY (approximately $200 USD). Many beauty clinics across Japan sell this weight loss drug at cost to clients. The price is typically per pill, and ranges from 770 to 1,000 JPY. Over a three-month period, using Sanorex can amount to approximately 72,000 JPY (roughly $600 USD).
Compared to semaglutide shots like Ozempic, even if the shot is prescribed by a doctor, Sanorex is less expensive per month.
How to buy Sanorex in Japan?
If you have health insurance and meet certain criteria, it's possible to have mazindol (the active ingredient in Sanorex) prescribed and covered under Japan's national health insurance system. To pursue this, you will need to consult with your doctor to discuss weight management options, including the possibility of obtaining a prescription for mazindol.
I decided to go directly to a beauty clinic and pay the full cost. I was surprised by how straightforward the process was to get a prescription for Sanorex from a doctor at a beauty clinic. Since I'm not fluent in Japanese, I made sure to bring an interpreter with me for the initial consultation to ensure clear communication- when I made the appointment online, they contacted me to tell me that I must have someone who can speak Japanese with me for the first appointment to discuss instructions and risks. For my subsequent visits, I could come alone.
Upon arrival, I was asked to complete a basic information form in Japanese. This form covered general health details, including whether I was currently taking any antidepressants, had been diagnosed with any mental health conditions, and questions about allergies, pregnancy, breastfeeding, and other general medical history. Once the form was submitted, I was asked to step on the scale for a weight check, and my BMI was recorded.
The doctor provided clear instructions on how to take the medication: one pill per day, ideally around lunchtime, and to drink plenty of water. That was the extent of the consultation. I was given the go-ahead to start the medication and scheduled a follow-up appointment for a month later.
One thing that caught me off guard was that, despite reading about potential side effects online, my blood pressure was not measured during this visit. There were also no questions asked about my heart health. Prior to the appointment, I had already had these health checks done, but the clinic relied entirely on me to self-report any conditions that might interfere with the medication.
The takeaway here is clear: it's crucial to be fully aware of your health status before starting any medication, as failing to do so could potentially put you at risk. If you're unsure about your health conditions, it's best to seek a thorough checkup before starting any new treatment.
By the end of the visit, I walked out with a 28-day supply of Sanorex and the expectation to return in a month for further assessment.
How Long Should I Take Sanorex?
In Japan, if you do not have any heart issues or are not on medications that may interact with Sanorex, and you have a high BMI, you can be prescribed the medication for up to three months at a time. During this period, you will need to visit the clinic monthly for a weigh-in and to purchase your next supply of medication. Some clinics may prescribe Sanorex in shorter durations, such as 14-day increments.
After three months of continuous use, it’s required to take a one-month break to prevent your body from developing a tolerance to the medication. This tolerance can reduce the drug's effectiveness over time. I found the first two "rounds" (three months on, one month off) to be the most effective. However, after the third round, I experienced diminishing results as my body adjusted to the medication.
What Are the Common Side Effects of Mazindol/Sanorex?
For me, the most noticeable side effects of Sanorex included an increase in body temperature, a rise in my resting heart rate, and heightened thirst. While these side effects were uncomfortable, they did not significantly interfere with my daily life. Other common side effects reported by users include dry mouth, nausea, insomnia, constipation, headache, and dizziness. An increased heart rate is also frequently observed during the medication's use and may persist even after discontinuation.
For reference, prior to using Sanorex, my resting heart rate was 80 beats per minute (bpm), which falls within the healthy range. After continued use of the medication, my resting heart rate increased to an average of 110 bpm, which is above the typical range.
It’s important to monitor your blood pressure regularly, as an increase in blood pressure is a known side effect of Sanorex. This should be closely managed throughout the course of the medication's use. Always consult your doctor before starting a medication like Sanorex to ensure it is appropriate for your health condition and to discuss the possible side effects and monitoring requirements.
Should You Use Sanorex?
If you're financially able, in good overall health, and not on conflicting medications, I would recommend giving Sanorex a try. However, it’s essential to work closely with a doctor, especially in Japan where different doctors have varying specialties and health monitoring practices. Keep a thorough record of your health, current medications, diagnoses, and other important information for your well-being. This documentation can be invaluable for your doctor to ensure that all aspects of your health are being considered.
It's important to note that doctors at some Japanese beauty clinics may not monitor key health indicators like heart rate or blood pressure when prescribing medications like Sanorex. Therefore, if any health issues arise while using the drug, you might not be aware of them, which could put you at risk. It's crucial to take responsibility for your own health and stay informed about your current condition.
If you're in good health and need that extra boost to change your lifestyle, Sanorex could help with your journey. However, as I’ve mentioned before, it’s not a magic pill. The medication is expensive and comes with risks, so you should be sure that you're mentally and physically prepared to start. Your energy levels, sleep quality, hydration, and concentration will all be affected, and it’s vital to make an informed decision about whether this is the right step for you.
Before starting Sanorex, I recommend the following:
Consult with a doctor, specifically to check your heart health and blood pressure.
If possible consult with a nutritionist or dietician to come up with a meal plan to follow. This is especially important in the first few months of use, as you may not feel any signs of hunger and as a result, become malnourished. It's important to improve or maintain your health, not just lose weight.
Research local clinics. There are slight pricing differences.
Set a goal to improve your overall health and maintain lifestyle habits. You won’t be able to stay on this medication forever, so use your time on the medication to develop healthy habits.
If you find yourself becoming dependent on Sanorex or developing eating disorder behaviors, stop immediately. It's considered an addictive medication and if not used properly can lead to other physical and mental health conditions.
Who Shouldn’t Take Sanorex?
People I wouldn't recommend Sanorex to:
Anyone with a history of addiction, addictive behavior, or eating disorders as Mazindol can be habit-forming.
People who are currently on any medication for mental conditions, have depression or any other mental health conditions.
People who haven't had a recent health checkup, or who haven't consulted with a doctor before starting Sanorex.
There is a long list of conflicting medications and health conditions for Mazindol/Sanorex. If mixed, it can lead to dangerous side effects. It is no longer prescribed in the US and other Western countries for the treatment of obesity and is rarely prescribed for other conditions. It is still widely prescribed in Japan for the treatment of obesity.
This article is an unbiased user experience from a non-medical professional. It is not sponsored. This information is not intended as medical advice. Consult your healthcare professional before taking Sanorex.
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