Prescription Weight Loss: A Guide to Medication Options

Dealing with weight issues can be really frustrating, and you might be thinking about prescription weight loss medications to help. With so many medications for weight loss available, it can be tough to know where to start. Let’s break down your options and see what’s available to help you reach your weight goals.

If you’ve tried lifestyle changes like diet and exercise but still struggle, prescription weight loss might be worth exploring. These medications can give you a boost on your weight management and work in various ways. Some prescription medications work by affecting your appetite, while others change how your body processes fat. Remember, they are meant to work alongside those lifestyle changes, not replace them entirely.

What are Prescription Weight-Loss Medications?

Prescription weight-loss medications are drugs approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to assist with weight management. These are typically prescribed for individuals with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 or higher. People with a BMI of 27 or higher with weight-related health problems may also qualify. Keep in mind, they’re not a magic bullet.

It’s about finding the right weight-loss medication for your specific needs and combining it with healthy habits. Many factors play into whether prescription weight-loss pills are right for you, so speak with your doctor.

Who Can Benefit from Prescription Weight Loss?

People with health problems related to being overweight or obese often find these medications most helpful. Doctors look at your BMI and consider factors like high blood pressure or type 2 diabetes. If your BMI is high and lifestyle changes alone haven’t helped, you and your doctor might talk about prescription weight loss as an option.

Common Types of Prescription Weight Loss Medications

There are several categories of prescription weight-loss medications on the market, each working a little differently. Your doctor can help determine which might suit you best.

1. GLP-1 Receptor Agonists

GLP-1 receptor agonists were initially developed for treating type 2 diabetes but have also proven effective for weight loss. They work by mimicking a naturally occurring hormone called GLP-1 that regulates appetite and makes you feel fuller faster. These are typically injectables, administered once a week, but some newer oral options are becoming available.

Some common GLP-1 receptor agonists include:

• Semaglutide (Wegovy, Ozempic) – Online searches and prescriptions for this type of drug are on the rise, according to a study in Frontiers in Cardiovascular Medicine. It was FDA approved for weight loss in 2021, with studies suggesting people lost between 5.9% and 14.9% of their weight. It can be used for adults and kids aged 12 and older.
• Liraglutide (Saxenda, Victoza) – Another GLP-1 agonist that has been used for weight management as well as managing type 2 diabetes. This medication requires daily injections.
• Tirzepatide (Zepbound, Mounjaro) – Similar to semaglutide, it is also a dual GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist, making it more potent for some individuals.

2. Combination Medications

Some medications combine two drugs that impact appetite, cravings, and feelings of fullness. These often target various pathways in the brain involved in weight regulation.

• Phentermine/Topiramate (Qsymia) – This mix brings together an appetite suppressant with a medication commonly used for migraines or seizures. It is a once-daily pill and has shown significant results in some individuals. You’ll want to discuss any existing medical conditions with your doctor before starting on it.
• Bupropion/Naltrexone (Contrave) – This pairing includes an antidepressant and a medication typically used to treat alcohol and opioid dependence. It’s thought to impact the reward system in the brain to decrease food cravings.

3. Lipase Inhibitors

This type of drug works directly in your digestive system to block fat absorption from the food you eat. Because it reduces the calories absorbed from fat, you’ll likely lose some weight. You should follow a low-fat diet when taking a lipase inhibitor.

• Orlistat (Xenical, Alli) – This is the most well-known lipase inhibitor available. Orlistat is a great example of how researchers look for various ways to tackle weight loss.

4. Hydrogels

Not technically a drug, hydrogels are capsule-based devices. When ingested, the capsule releases a gel-like substance in the stomach that expands to create a feeling of fullness.

• Plenity – While relatively new on the market, real-world studies show promising results, with an average weight loss of 9%. This could make it a more accessible option than the sometimes-costly GLP-1 receptor agonists. However, you might need to take more pills daily compared to other medications, so ask your doctor how this might impact you.

Are There Risks With Prescription Weight Loss?

Prescription weight loss medications have potential downsides, so a careful discussion with your doctor is essential.

Side Effects

Like any medication, they can cause side effects that vary based on the drug. Some common effects include nausea, vomiting, constipation, and diarrhea. Less common, more serious effects like gallstones or pancreatitis are possible. Remember, communication with your healthcare provider is key, especially if you notice anything unusual while taking the medication.

Long-Term Effects

For many of these medications, more research is still needed on their long-term effects. Additionally, some are FDA-approved only for short-term use, such as up to 12 weeks. Be sure to talk with your healthcare provider or make an appointment at C3 Wellness to find out how long you should be taking your medication.

The duration of treatment really depends on how your body responds, any potential side effects, and your weight goals. Some patients require long-term management, while others might need the medication for shorter durations.

Cost

The cost of prescription weight loss drugs can be a significant factor, as these drugs aren’t always fully covered by insurance. Some newer options, like Wegovy, can carry hefty price tags, with estimated annual net costs of over $13,600. Medicare does not cover weight loss medications, but if you are looking for more affordable prescription weight loss, other medications, such as phentermine, can be much cheaper with a price tag of around $10 per month.

A doctor can help explore different choices that fit both your budget and medical needs. Be sure to factor in any follow-up appointments and potential lab work when determining your overall cost.

Weight Regain

Weight regain is a concern for a lot of people after stopping prescription medications. However, weight regain doesn’t always mean failure. If you’ve incorporated lasting healthy habits, the regain might be minimal.

Consider working closely with your healthcare provider and maybe even a registered dietitian to create sustainable dietary and activity plans, even when you’re no longer on the medication. This way, you’re setting yourself up for success.

Emerging Research and Future Developments

Researchers continue to search for better ways to understand and treat obesity. They are actively studying different hormones, particularly those that control hunger signals in the brain, like peptide YY. New combinations of drugs, various delivery methods, and more targeted therapies are being explored as we move towards a more comprehensive approach to obesity management.

One example of the shift in thinking involves recognizing the role hormones play. Dr. Robert Kushner, an expert in the field, views obesity as more of an endocrine issue. Treating it as such, hormonally, opens the door for diverse drug options, empowering both patients and providers with greater choices in personalized treatments. This idea is gaining traction, with research efforts increasingly focused on identifying medications that best suit each individual’s situation .

Navigating Your Options for Prescription Weight Loss

Starting your journey with prescription weight loss might seem a little overwhelming, but having the right knowledge and tools makes a huge difference. Remember, this is your personal journey, so be honest with yourself and your doctor.

• Educate yourself. Read about various medications, including the DRUGS@FDA database for more in-depth information .
• Find a trusted medical professional. Openly communicate your health history, current medications, and any allergies to prescription weight loss.
• Be active in the process. Discuss potential benefits, risks, and costs to determine what works for your lifestyle.
• Track progress and be patient. Weight loss isn’t always immediate, and your journey might involve adjustments along the way.
• Embrace those lifestyle changes. Exercise and balanced nutrition amplify the effects of medications.

FAQs About Prescription Weight Loss

What Is the Most Effective Weight Loss Prescription Drug?

There isn’t one universally “best” drug as it depends on individual responses and needs. Some medications, like semaglutide (Ozempic) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro), are showing high efficacy with weight loss averaging 15% or even 20% of initial body weight.

Talk to your doctor about what studies have shown regarding weight loss percentage with different medications and consider whether your insurance covers them.

What are Doctors Prescribing for Weight Loss?

Prescriptions vary greatly and depend on several factors. These factors include your medical history, weight loss goals, insurance coverage, and tolerance for side effects. Some of the most commonly prescribed options include:

Medication	Type	Delivery Method
Semaglutide (Wegovy, Ozempic)	GLP-1 receptor agonist	Injection (weekly)
Liraglutide (Saxenda, Victoza)	GLP-1 receptor agonist	Injection (daily)
Tirzepatide (Mounjaro, Zepbound)	Dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist	Injection (weekly)
Phentermine/Topiramate (Qsymia)	Combination	Pill (daily)
Bupropion/Naltrexone (Contrave)	Combination	Pill (twice daily)
Orlistat (Xenical, Alli)	Lipase inhibitor	Pill (with meals)
Plenity	Hydrogel	Pill (twice daily)

How Do You Qualify for Prescription Weight Loss Pills?

Qualification is determined by your BMI, along with other weight-related health conditions. This decision is typically made in collaboration with a healthcare professional, so it’s best to discuss your specific circumstances with them. Some clinics like C3 Wellness even offer personalized programs with doctors who specialize in obesity medicine.

What Is the New Prescription Drug for Weight Loss?

While newer GLP-1 receptor agonists like semaglutide and tirzepatide have dominated headlines recently, there is also excitement surrounding a newer medication called setmelanotide (Imcivree). This drug targets a specific pathway in the brain involved in appetite regulation. It is currently approved for chronic weight management but is reserved for patients with certain rare genetic disorders causing obesity, starting from age 6. As research progresses, keep an eye out for new prescription weight loss options emerging.

Conclusion

Prescription weight loss isn’t just about popping pills. It’s a personalized approach requiring knowledge, commitment, and open communication with your healthcare provider. Combining the right medication with lifestyle changes like healthy eating, regular physical activity, and behavior therapy can dramatically improve your chances of success. Remember, this is about enhancing your health and well-being, taking things one step at a time to lose weight. Make an appointment at C3 Wellness today for your medical weight loss consultation.

 

DISCLAIMER: This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting any medication or treatment. The author is not a medical professional, and individual results may vary. This post does not endorse the use of Wegovy or Ozempic. The author and this website are not liable for any adverse effects resulting from the information provided.