Prescription Weight Loss Treatments: What You Need to Know
Achieving meaningful weight loss can be challenging, especially when diet and exercise alone don’t yield the desired results. For those struggling to lose weight, prescription treatments provide a medically supervised path that can help you reach your goals safely and effectively. This guide delves into the latest developments in prescription weight loss options, addressing common questions and exploring how these treatments can be a game-changer for many.
The Role of Weight Loss Injections
Among the most effective prescription weight loss options are weight loss injections, such as semaglutide. These treatments offer convenience and proven results, typically administered once a week. They work by curbing appetite and reducing caloric intake, with noticeable changes often occurring within weeks.
Is There Anything a Doctor Can Prescribe for Weight Loss?
Yes, doctors can prescribe a range of weight loss medications tailored to individual needs. These include semaglutide, tirzepatide, liraglutide, and orlistat, among others. The choice of medication depends on various factors including the patient’s health conditions, weight loss goals, and potential side effects.
Currently Available Weight Loss Medications
Some weight loss medications have been on the market for many years, while new ones are emerging frequently. Here’s a look at some commonly prescribed options:
Semaglutide (Wegovy, Ozempic): Wegovy is a brand name for semaglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist approved by the FDA in 2021. Administered as an injection, it’s used for adults and children aged 12 and older with obesity (BMI ≥30 for adults, BMI ≥ 95th percentile for children) or adults with excess weight (BMI ≥27) who also have weight-related health issues. The dosage is gradually increased to 2.4 mg over 16 to 20 weeks to minimize side effects like gastrointestinal symptoms, headache, and dizziness. Ozempic is the same medication but is primarily used for treating type 2 diabetes.
Tirzepatide (Zepbound, Mounjaro): Initially approved as Mounjaro for type 2 diabetes, tirzepatide is now available as Zepbound for treating obesity in adults with a BMI of 30 or greater. This medication acts as both a GLP-1 and a GIP receptor agonist, reducing appetite when used in combination with diet and exercise.
Liraglutide (Saxenda): A daily injectable, liraglutide acts on hormones to help you feel full more quickly. Starting doses range from 0.6 mg to 3 mg a day. Patients might experience weight loss of 5–10% with higher doses. Common side effects include nausea and gastrointestinal issues, and it is contraindicated for those with certain thyroid conditions.
Phentermine (Adipex, Suprenza): One of the oldest weight loss medications, phentermine is used short-term to jump-start weight loss. It can be effective in helping some patients lose about 5% of their body weight. Side effects include insomnia and increased blood pressure, and it should not be used with MAO inhibitors or certain other medications.
Phentermine-topiramate (Qsymia): Combining phentermine with topiramate enhances effectiveness, particularly for individuals with migraines and obesity. Patients might lose an average of 5–10% of their body weight. Side effects can include dizziness and dry mouth, and it is contraindicated in patients with uncontrolled hypertension and other conditions.
Naltrexone-bupropion (Contrave): This combination drug affects the brain’s pleasure-reward areas to reduce cravings and appetite. Some patients may lose 5–10% of their body weight. It starts with a daily dose of one 8/90 mg tablet, increasing to four tablets a day. Common side effects include nausea and dry mouth, and it should not be used by those with seizure disorders or opioid use.
Setmelanotide (Imcivree): Setmelanotide is a melanocortin-4 receptor agonist for chronic weight management in individuals with specific rare genetic disorders causing obesity, confirmed through genetic testing.
Orlistat (Xenical and Alli): Orlistat is a lipase inhibitor that blocks fat absorption from food. It is used with a reduced-calorie diet and can help with weight loss of about 5%. It is available as a prescription (120 mg) or over-the-counter (60 mg). Common side effects include oily discharge and increased bowel movements.
Hydrogel (Plenity): Plenity, a medical device rather than a medication, consists of a capsule that releases a biodegradable hydrogel into the stomach to increase satiety and reduce food intake. It is FDA-cleared for individuals with a BMI of 24 to 40 and has shown an average weight loss of 9% in studies.
How Long Do Weight-Loss Medications Need to Be Taken?
Some weight management medications are designed for short-term use, while others are intended for long-term management. For instance, certain medications are approved by the FDA for use up to 12 weeks.
Medications approved for long-term use include:
Orlistat (Xenical, Alli)
Phentermine-topiramate (Qsymia)
Naltrexone-bupropion (Contrave)
Liraglutide (Saxenda)
Semaglutide (Wegovy, Ozempic)
Tirzepatide (Zepbound, Mounjaro)
These medications often require a gradual ramp-up period to reach full dosage, which can take up to five months. It is important to remember that while these drugs can aid in weight loss, they do not offer a permanent “cure” for obesity, a chronic condition that often requires ongoing management.
What is the Most Effective Weight Loss Prescription Drug?
Among the weight loss medications, semaglutide (Wegovy) stands out for its significant effectiveness. Clinical studies have shown that patients using semaglutide can achieve an average weight loss of up to 14.9%. However, it is important to consider the cost and potential side effects when choosing a medication.
What is the Newest Prescription Drug for Weight Loss?
Tirzepatide (Zepbound) is one of the newest prescription drugs for weight loss. It was recently approved for treating obesity and is noted for its effectiveness in reducing appetite and promoting weight loss. Tirzepatide acts on both GLP-1 and GIP receptors, offering a novel approach to managing obesity.
Upcoming Weight Loss Medications
With rising obesity rates and consumer demand, new weight loss medications are in development:
Orforglipron: An oral GLP-1 inhibitor being developed by Lilly.
Retatrutide: An injectable drug targeting GLP-1, GIP, and glucagon.
Pfizer’s GLP-1 Inhibitors: Developing oral options.
Amgen’s Candidate: A drug combining GLP-1 receptor agonism and GIP receptor antagonism.
Monoclonal antibodies like bimagrumab are also being studied to increase muscle mass while decreasing fat. Researchers continue to explore other hormones and mechanisms for targeting obesity.
Who is a Good Candidate for Prescription Weight Loss Treatment?
Prescription weight loss treatments are generally recommended for individuals with a BMI of 30 or higher, or a BMI of 27 or higher with weight-related health conditions. Each treatment has specific guidelines, so a consultation with a healthcare provider is essential to determine the best option for your needs.
Skinfinity by Hiba Rihan: A Holistic Approach to Weight Loss
For a comprehensive approach to weight management, Skinfinity by Hiba Rihan, one of the top aesthetic clinics in Kingston, London, offers a combination of prescription weight loss treatments and cosmetic enhancements. We integrate medical and aesthetic care, providing services like semaglutide injections to support both medical and aesthetic goals.
Taking the Next Step in Your Weight Loss Journey
Prescription weight loss treatments provide a viable option for those who need additional support in managing their weight. Whether through semaglutide injections or other prescribed medications, these treatments can help you achieve your goals when diet and exercise alone are insufficient. Consult with a healthcare provider to explore the most appropriate treatment based on your health needs and consider a holistic approach that includes both medical and aesthetic care.