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Writer's picturemichaelamocanu

A Doctor's Perspective on FDA- Approved Weight Loss Medication

Updated: Jul 3


FDA Weight Loss Drugs

Losing weight is a journey with its ups and downs. For many, it’s not just about looking good but about taking control of their health. At Hypertension Kidney Care & Weight Management, we totally get it. 


We believe in a personalized approach, and sometimes, a little help from medication can make a big difference.


In this blog post, we're diving into different weight loss medications. This discussion is based on how we, as doctors, think about these medications.


FDA-Approved Weight Loss Medications


FDA Approved Diet Pills

Semaglutide (GLP-1 Receptor Agonist)


Wegovy, Ozempic, Rybelsus


Semaglutide works by mimicking a hormone called GLP-1 that targets the brain areas controlling appetite and food intake. GLP-1, naturally produced in the gut, helps control your blood sugar, promotes fullness, and slows gastric emptying. 

And by activating these pathways, it can also help you manage weight more effectively and boost your overall metabolic health.


Benefits


  • Reduces hunger

  • Decreases food desire

  • Increases feelings of fullness

  • Improves insulin resistance


Considerations


Usually given as a weekly shot, this treatment has shown some impressive results in clinical trials. People have experienced significant weight loss and noticeable improvements in their overall health and well-being. 


Plus, most people handle the therapy well, making it a promising option for long-term weight management.


Tirzapatide (GIP/GLP-1 Receptor Agonist)


Mounjaro, Zepbound


Tirzepatide is pretty special because it hits both GIP and GLP-1 receptors. What does that mean for you? It helps regulate insulin and keeps your appetite in check more effectively. 


This dual action can improve glucose metabolism and make you feel fuller, which is beneficial for managing type 2 diabetes and obesity. And by targeting multiple hormonal pathways, it also offers a well-rounded approach to better metabolic health.


Benefits


  • Reduces hunger

  • Decreases food desire

  • Increases feelings of fullness

  • Improves insulin resistance


Considerations


Also administered via injection given weekly, this treatment has shown a lot of promise in recent studies. It's been especially helpful not only for people with type 2 diabetes where it helps them keep their blood sugar levels in check, but also for people affected by obesity and where it helps improve overall their health.


Phentermine


Adipex, Lomaira


Phentermine is a stimulant that acts on your central nervous system, similar to amphetamines, to help curb your appetite. It is often also prescribed as a short-term weight loss solution, especially if you're dealing with obesity or related health issues. By adjusting your neurotransmitter levels, phentermine helps curb your appetite, making it easier to stick to a calorie-restricted diet and achieve your weight loss goals.


Phentermine was first approved by the FDA for the treatment of obesity in 1959. At that time, it was not yet understood that obesity, just like high blood pressure or diabetes, can be a long-term condition. This medication was designed to be used as a part of a comprehensive weight management program that includes diet, physical activity, and behavioral changes. Unfortunately, phentermine short-term treatment is not effective for everyone with obesity because it doesn't address the underlying long-term behavioral, metabolic, and lifestyle factors essential for sustainable weight loss. 

Additionally, it is also important to use this under a doctor's supervision since there can be side effects and a risk of dependency.


Benefits


Reduces hunger


Considerations


Typically recommended for short-term use to avoid dependency and side effects such as increased heart rate and blood pressure. A newer formulation that combines phentermine with topiramate has been approved by the FDA for long-term use, and we will discuss it next.


Phentermine/Topiramate


Qsymia


Combines phentermine's appetite-suppressing power with topiramate, a medication that helps with weight loss. This combo makes it easier to stick to a low-calorie diet and hit your weight loss goals.


Benefits


  • Reduces hunger

  • Decreases food desire


Considerations


This method can help with long-term weight management and provide lasting results. But, it does come with some potential risks like mood changes and birth defects. That's why regular check-ups with a healthcare professional are key to staying safe and addressing any side effects quickly. Make sure you're aware of these risks before starting the treatment.


Naltrexone/Bupropion


Contrave


Naltrexone acts like a shield, blocking opioid effects and cutting cravings. Bupropion, on the other hand, is the go-to antidepressant that boosts your mood and can even help you quit smoking. 


Together, they target brain pathways tied to appetite and reward. This combo can be great for tackling obesity by reducing food cravings and lifting your spirits.


Benefits


  • Reduces hunger

  • Decreases food desire


Considerations


This mix of medications can impact your mood and should be avoided if you have seizure disorders. Make sure to check with a healthcare provider before taking them together, as they could worsen existing conditions and lead to serious health problems.


Orlistat


Xenical/ Alli


Helps you lose weight by stopping your body from absorbing a percentage of the fat you consume. It works by blocking an enzyme called lipase, which breaks down fat. So, a chunk of that fat just passes through undigested. 


Orlistat, is sold as Alli over-the-counter (60 mg three times daily) and as prescription Xenical (120 mg three times daily), is hard for many patients to tolerate. It must be taken with meals containing fat to work. Side effects include stomach discomfort, oily stools, urgent bowel movements, and sometimes loss of bowel control. Orlistat also reduces the absorption of vitamins A, D, E, and K, so a daily multivitamin is recommended. It can interact with other prescription medications. 


Unfortunately, its significant side effects and modest weight loss benefits have made it less popular nowadays.


Benefits


Decreases absorption of dietary fat


Considerations


This medication might cause some gastrointestinal issues like oily stools and gas. To lessen these effects, try sticking to a low-fat diet and drink plenty of water. Also, regular exercise and monitoring what you eat can help manage these side effects better.


Weight Loss Medicine

Choosing the Right Weight Loss Medication


Medical Conditions


If you have health issues like diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart disease, some meds might work better for you. It’s important to talk with your healthcare provider to make sure the meds won’t make things worse or interfere with other treatments you’re on.


Side Effects


Every medication has its potential side effects, which can be anything from headaches or dizziness to more serious things like allergic reactions or organ problems. 


It's important to balance these against the benefits and talk about any worries with your healthcare provider so you can make the best choice for your treatment plan.


Lifestyle


Consider how the medication fits into your daily routine.


Some options require daily pills, so you'll need to remember to take them at the same time each day. Others might involve weekly injections, which could be more convenient if daily routines are tough for you, but you're okay with injections. 


Also, think about any lifestyle changes you might need to make, like adjusting your diet or getting more physical activity.


Weight Loss Goals


Your target weight loss can influence your choice of meds. If you're looking for significant weight loss, some meds are known to be more effective than others for bigger results. 


It's a good idea to chat with your healthcare provider about your specific goals so they can recommend something that fits your goal. They can also help keep track of your progress and tweak your treatment plan if needed.


Comprehensive Weight Management With Dr. Mocanu


Dr. Mocanu offers compassionate, evidence-based care to help you reach your health goals.


Thinking about weight loss medications? Chat with our team about your options. We can work together to create a personalized plan that supports your overall well-being.


Got questions or need personalized advice? Feel free to reach out to us!



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