GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) weight loss medications are a class of drugs used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes and obesity. They work by mimicking the actions of the natural hormone GLP-1, which is produced in the gut in response to food intake. GLP-1 plays a role in regulating glucose metabolism and appetite.
GLP-1 medications can promote feelings of fullness and reduce hunger. Activation of GLP-1 receptors in the hypothalamus leads to a decrease in appetite, which can result in reduced food intake.
When GLP-1 medications are administered, they bind to GLP-1 receptors in various tissues, including the brain. In the brain, GLP-1 receptors are located in areas that control appetite and satiety, such as the hypothalamus.
GLP-1 medications can promote feelings of fullness and reduce hunger. Activation of GLP-1 receptors in the hypothalamus leads to a decrease in appetite, which can result in reduced food intake.
Generic Name:Semaglutide
FDA Approval Year:2021
BMI Criteria (Obesity):BMI ≥ 30 or BMI ≥ 27 with at least one weight-related condition
Rx Required:Yes
The Good:
Best in class for weight loss
Helps you end meals earlier
Help keeps you full longer
Weight Loss @1-year = 15%
The Bad
Nausea is common when starting
Expensive, may be a high co-payment
Not all insurances cover it (usually needs
MD supervision, detailed diet, exercise
and behavior counseling)
Generic Name:Liraglutide
FDA Approval Year:2014
BMI Criteria (Obesity):BMI ≥ 30 or BMI ≥ 27 with at least one weight-related condition
Rx Required:Yes
The Good:
Helps you end meals earlier
Helps keep you full longer
Weight Loss @1-year = 6%
Treatment for Type 2 Diabetes
Good side effect profile
The Bad
Nausea is common when starting
Once a day injection
Expensive, may be a high co-payment
Not all insurances cover it
Usually needs MD supervision, detailed diet, exercise and behavior counseling
Generic Name:Phentermine
FDA Approval Year:1959
BMI Criteria (Obesity):Typically used for short-term treatment in individuals with a BMI ≥ 30
Rx Required:Yes
The Good:
Suppresses Appetite
Many Doses Available
Cheap
The Bad
May develop tolerance and regain weight
Can increase blood pressure & heart rate
Not safe for use in some people (Ask MD)
Generic Name:Phentermine + Topiramate
FDA Approval Year:2012
BMI Criteria (Obesity):BMI ≥ 30 or BMI ≥ 27 with at least one weight-related condition
Rx Required:Yes
The Good:
Suppresses Appetite
Combination Therapy
Weight Loss @1-year = 6-9%
The Bad
Side Effect: Concentration difficulties
Side Effect: Memory loss
Weight Loss @2-year = 7-9%
Generic Name:Bupropion + Naltrexone
FDA Approval Year:2014
BMI Criteria (Obesity):BMI ≥ 30 or BMI ≥ 27 with at least one weight-related condition
Rx Required:Yes
The Good:
Suppresses Appetite
Combination Therapy
Weight Loss @1-year = 4%
The Bad
Must not be on Opiates
Not safe for use in some people (Ask MD)
No Weight Loss Study >1-year = ???
Generic Name:Tirzepatide
FDA Approval Year:2022
BMI Criteria (Obesity):BMI ≥ 30 or BMI ≥ 27 with at least one weight-related condition
Rx Required:Yes
The Good:
Proven effective for significant weight loss.
Reduces appetite and food intake.
Administered weekly by injection.
The Bad
Common side effects include gastrointestinal issues and injection site reactions.
Potential risk of thyroid tumors (based on animal studies).
Weight regain likely upon discontinuation
Book a consult with our professionals
Answer questionnaires and complete labs
We’ll review, prescribe, and administer
GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) medications work by mimicking a naturally occurring hormone in the body that regulates appetite and glucose metabolism. These medications can help control hunger, slow down digestion, and regulate blood sugar levels, leading to weight loss.
Weight loss medications are prescription drugs that can aid in weight management by suppressing appetite, increasing metabolism, or reducing the absorption of fat. These medications are used in conjunction with a comprehensive weight loss program to support healthy and sustainable weight loss.
Weight loss medications can be safe and effective when prescribed and monitored by a qualified healthcare professional. However, they may have potential side effects and are not suitable for everyone. It❜s essential to discuss your medical history, current medications, and any underlying conditions with your healthcare provider before starting any weight loss medication.
Contrave is a combination medication that contains bupropion and naltrexone. Bupropion helps reduce appetite and cravings, while naltrexone works by blocking certain receptors in the brain involved in food reward. Contrave is used to support weight loss efforts when combined with a healthy diet and exercise.
Qsymia is a combination medication that contains phentermine and topiramate extended-release. It works by suppressing appetite and enhancing satiety to support weight loss. Qsymia is used as a long-term treatment for obesity when combined with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity.
Contact Us
