In certain cases, medication may play a crucial role in achieving optimal health. Our healthcare providers bring a nuanced understanding of FDA-approved pharmaceutical interventions, carefully selecting and monitoring medications to complement lifestyle changes. The goal is to optimize treatment, minimizing side effects and maximizing efficacy.

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What sets our healthcare providers apart is their commitment to personalized care. They recognize that each individual is unique, and there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Through thorough assessments and ongoing collaboration, they build partnerships with patients, empowering them to actively participate in their wellness journey.

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Medicines that may be used for weight-loss include: 

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1. Orlistat (Xenical, Alli):

   • Mechanism of Action: Orlistat works by inhibiting the action of lipase, an enzyme that breaks down dietary fat in the intestine. This inhibition reduces the absorption of dietary fat, leading to lower caloric intake and, consequently, weight loss.

2. Phentermine (Adipex-P, Lomaira):

   • Mechanism of Action: Phentermine is a sympathomimetic amine that acts as an appetite suppressant. It stimulates the release of neurotransmitters like norepinephrine, which signals the brain to reduce appetite. Phentermine is typically prescribed for short-term use due to its potential for tolerance.

3. Liraglutide (Saxenda):

   • Mechanism of Action: Originally used for diabetes management, liraglutide is now approved for weight loss. It acts on the glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor in the brain, promoting feelings of fullness and reducing food intake.

4. Bupropion/Naltrexone (Contrave):

   • Mechanism of Action: This combination medication works in the central nervous system. Bupropion is an antidepressant that may help control appetite, while naltrexone is an opioid antagonist that can further decrease food cravings.

5. Tirzepatide (Zepbound):

   • Mechanism of Action: Tirzepatide is a medication that belongs to a class of drugs known as du al glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists. It is primarily used for the management of type 2 diabetes but has been shown to cause drastic weight loss and is FDA-approved for both indications. The mechanism of action of tirzepatide involves its effects on GIP and GLP-1 receptors. 

6. Semaglutide (Ozempic):

   • Mechanism of Action: Semaglutide is a medication that belongs to a class of drugs known as glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists. It is primarily used for the management of type 2 diabetes as well but can be a potent weight management drug. The mechanism of action of semaglutide involves its effects on GLP-1 receptors. 

7. Semaglutide (Wegovy):

   • Mechanism of Action: Semaglutide is a medication that belongs to a class of drugs known as glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists. It is primarily used for the management of type 2 diabetes but can be a potent weight management drug. The brand Wegovy has FDA-approved indications for weight loss management. The mechanism of action of semaglutide involves its effects on GLP-1 receptors. 

8. Topiramate/Phentermine (Qsymia):

   • ​​Mechanism of Action: This combination medication involves two drugs. Topiramate is an anticonvulsant that may help with weight loss by causing a feeling of fullness, while phentermine is an appetite suppressant.

9. Lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse):

   • Mechanism of Action: Lisdexamfetamine is a potent dopamine and norepinephrine agonist. While it is primarily used in ADHD and binge eating disorders, weight loss can be a side effect due to its appetite suppressant properties. ​​