Pharmacologic therapies or medications play an important role as part of a comprehensive weight loss regimen. These medications may be dosed orally or by injection with different targets and adverse effects; thus, the risks and benefits of these medications are individualized to the patient. We will review these medications with you at an office visit to determine if you are a candidate for medical therapy and if so, which treatment is most ideal for you. We only prescribe FDA approved medications to our patients.
There are currently 4 oral medications that are FDA-approved for weight loss:
Wegovy is a GLP-1 agonist, which means that it mimics GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide), a hormone involved in controlling the speed of stomach emptying and decreasing insulin resistance. GLP-1 is also responsible for decreasing appetite and cravings. Wegovy acts in several areas in the body including the stomach, pancreas and the brain making it a comprehensive medication treating both the underlying physiological and neurological elements of obesity.
Medical therapies are appropriate for patients with a BMI (body mass index) of 30 (calculate your BMI here) or higher OR for patients with a BMI of 27 or higher with obesity-related comorbidities (health problems such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, fatty liver, high cholesterol, acid reflux disease). We also might pair these medications with an endoscopic procedure to maximize weight loss.
Each person and each medication is different, both in effects and weight loss results. According to a medical study, Wegovy was shown to help adults achieve 15% weight loss with an average of 35 pounds when taking compared to those taking the placebo who lost 2.5% or an average of 6 lbs.
Please note that MOUNJARO (tirzepatide), RYBELSUS (semaglutide) and OZEMPIC (semaglutide) are not currently FDA approved for weight loss. Their primary indication is for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. Our practice does not primarily manage type 2 diabetes.
All of these medications have different mechanisms of actions as well as different side effect profiles and benefits. A comprehensive office visit including health and weight history, review of your current medications as well as a physical examination will be performed before determination of which medication may be appropriate for you.
It is important to know that medical therapies are intended to be part of an overall healthy lifestyle including an exercise regimen and reduced calorie diet plan. Medications alone will not be successful in helping you to achieve your overall weight loss goals. We encourage you to discuss further with your doctor at your visit.
We at 4ward Wellness welcome patients from anywhere, and we know it is crucial to have the right accommodation when visiting us. Located 20 minutes from Albany International Airport, 4ward Wellness is looking forward, in the future, to partnering with nearby hotels. For now, we encourage you to choose from the many accommodations in the greater Albany area. Our friendly staff can help you find accommodation that is suitable for your needs. Let us know how we can help.
Remember, this is not just a one-time visit, but is a long-term journey. We will work closely with you to create a long-term weight loss plan while you are on one of these medications through scheduled office visits. You will also have access to a bariatric counselor and nutritionist to help assist you in achieving your weight loss goals.*
*Costs of this vary and are separate from other services offered
