I'm Obese: Should I Get on Weight Loss Medication?

If you struggle with obesity, you probably know how challenging it is to drop unwanted pounds and keep them off over time. Weight loss medication can help, but it’s not the ideal choice for everyone.

At Premier Physicians Weight Loss & Wellness, Dana Trippi, DO, and our team use a comprehensive approach to weight loss, tailoring plans to each patient’s unique needs and health challenges. 

In this post, learn how weight loss medications work and whether they could make a good addition to your weight management plan.

GLP-1 inhibitors: The new kids on the block

Recently, a lot of attention has focused on semaglutide and tirzepatide, medications known as GLP-1 inhibitors. Initially used to treat diabetes, today these prescription medicines also help people lose weight.

For weight loss, GLP-1 inhibitors are restricted to people with a body mass index (BMI) over 30 or a BMI over 27 with an obesity-related health issue, like hypertension or diabetes. If you have obesity, your BMI qualifies you for GLP-1 medications, but there are other considerations.

Like any medication, GLP-1 inhibitors have uncommon or rare side effects that may be serious. Although those risks are slim, you should understand them to make an informed decision. 

Some GLP-1 medications need to be injected on a regular schedule, so you must be comfortable with injecting yourself.

Other weight loss medications

GLP-1 inhibitors may get the lion’s share of media attention, but there are other options for weight loss medications. 

Some medicines work by helping you control your appetite, stimulating chemicals in your brain associated with cravings. These medicines may also activate your brain’s reward system, decreasing food cravings.

Other medicines promote weight loss by reducing the fat calories your body can absorb. These medications are frequently combined with low-fat diets to prevent bloating or other effects caused by undigested fats.

Still other weight loss medicines work on optimizing your metabolism — the process your body uses to turn food into energy. These medicines help your body burn calories more efficiently.

How to tell if you’re a good candidate

Like GLP-1 inhibitors, these other weight loss medicines are only suitable for people with higher BMIs. If you’re obese, you already fall into this category. We typically prescribe them once other weight loss methods, like diet and exercise, have proved ineffective.

Medical history

Some medical issues can influence which medications you can use. For instance, if you have heart disease, appetite suppressants may not be a good choice since they can increase your heart rate and blood pressure.

Kidney, liver, gallbladder, or pancreas conditions as well can determine which weight loss medicines you can take.

On the other hand, some medications can help reduce risks associated with issues like hypertension or heart disease by reducing the impact of extra pounds.

Other medications

Weight loss medications may interact negatively with other medicines you take. During your initial evaluation, it’s critical to let us know about all medicines and supplements you use to reduce the risk of interactions and complications.

Side effects

Weight loss medicines can cause side effects, particularly in the gastrointestinal system. Some can cause bloating, diarrhea, constipation, or nausea. Many side effects clear up as your body adjusts to the medication.

Lifestyle and compliance

Weight loss medicines work best when combined with a healthy lifestyle, including a healthy eating plan and regular exercise. These extra steps improve weight loss, support better health, and help you maintain your weight loss over time.

Medicines also need to be taken as directed. If you don’t feel ready to make healthy lifestyle changes or commit to a dosing regimen, these medications might not be ideal for you.

We can help you reach your goals

To learn more about weight loss medications and whether they’re a good choice for you and your goals, request an appointment online or over the phone today with the team at Premier Physicians Weight Loss & Wellness in Las Vegas, Henderson, and Reno, Nevada.