What are weight loss medications?
Pharmacologic therapies or medications play an important role as part of a comprehensive weight loss regimen. These medications may be oral or injectable medications and carry different goals and adverse effects; thus, the risks and benefits of these medications are individualized to the patient. We will be able to review these medications with you at an office visit to determine if you are appropriate to receive medical therapy and if so, which treatment is most ideal for you. We only prescribe FDA approved medications to our patients.
INJECTABLE MEDICATIONS:
Wegovy is a GLP-1 agonist which means that it increases levels of GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide) which helps to control how fast the stomach empties as well as helping to decrease insulin resistance. It also decreases appetite and cravings. Wegovy acts in several areas in the body including the stomach, pancreas and in the brain making it a comprehensive medication in the treatment of overweight and obesity states.
ORAL MEDICATIONS
There are currently 4 oral medications that are FDA-approved for weight loss:
Are you a candidate for weight loss medications?
Medical therapies are appropriate for patients with a BMI (body mass index) of 30 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 after a procedure to maximize weight loss.
How much weight can I expect to lose?
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.
What can I expect?
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 oral medication may be appropriate for you.
Do I still need to diet and exercise while taking these medications?
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. These are things to be discussed with your doctor at your visit.
Out of Town
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 have partnered with these hotel(s) (Hyperlink). If you wish to stay elsewhere, our friendly staff will help you find accommodation that is suitable for your needs. Let us know how we can help.
**Please note that MOUNJARO (tirzepatide), RYBELSUS and OZEMPIC (semaglutide) are not currently FDA approved solely for weight loss. The primary indication is for treatment of Type 2 diabetes. Our practice does not primarily manage Type 2 diabetes.
