When To Consult Your Doctor About Weight Loss Medication

Many people struggle to lose weight and turn to weight loss medications for help. Getting to and maintaining a healthy weight is one of the best things you can do for your health. However, getting there can be difficult, and some people need extra help. A doctor can prescribe weight loss medication as part of a comprehensive plan to help you reach your weight loss goals.

Importance of being at a healthy weight

Getting to a healthy weight is not just about appearance. Extra weight can leave people feeling tired and sluggish and affect mobility. Beyond that, obesity can increase a person's risk of developing dangerous health conditions such as diabetes and heart disease. Therefore, weight loss is a significant health concern and should not only be about looking thinner.

How weight loss medications work

Many people know the importance of reaching a healthy weight but struggle to achieve their weight loss goals with diet and exercise alone. Weight loss medications may give these patients the extra help they need to enjoy the health benefits of being at a healthy weight. Most weight loss medications work in one of these three ways:

1. Appetite reduction. Makes the patient feel fuller faster, so they eat less
2. Absorption reduction. Causes the body to absorb fewer nutrients, such as fat, so it takes in fewer calories
3. Increase fat burning. Causes the body to burn more calories

Some medications may use a combination of these mechanisms to aid in weight loss.

Candidates for weight loss medication

Weight loss medication is not necessarily for everyone who is overweight. In fact, the FDA recommends it only be considered for those who have already tried diet, exercise, and other lifestyle changes. In addition, the patient should have a body mass index (BMI) greater than 30 or greater than 27 with other serious medical conditions such as hypertension or diabetes. Also, weight loss drugs should not be taken by those who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or trying to get pregnant.

Types of weight loss medication

Currently, there are several FDA-approved medications for weight loss. Here is a snapshot of some of the most commonly prescribed (generic drug names used):

• Bupropion-naltrexone. Combination drug that works to reduce appetite and address physiological aspects of overeating
• Liraglutide. A daily shot that helps manage diabetes and influences blood sugar control and appetite
• Orlistat. Affects the way the body absorbs fat
• Phentermine-topiramatete. Another combination drug that acts like an amphetamine and increases energy while reducing appetite and food cravings
• Semaglutide. Used to treat diabetes, regulate appetite, and increase feelings of fullness
• Setmelanotide. A weight loss drug intended for those with obesity due to genetic factors

A doctor recommends these medications only after thoroughly evaluating and explaining proper usage and potential side effects.

Risks and side effects

Each of these drugs has its own set of risks and side effects to consider. Risks and side effects are different for each drug but may include insomnia, dry mouth, nausea, headache, constipation, and other gastrointestinal issues. Certain drugs can come with risks of more serious health concerns, such as risk of seizure or addiction, and require patients to be evaluated strictly. All patients must be under close monitoring while taking these drugs. In addition, patients may need to discontinue use under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

How treatment works

When recommending any weight loss drug, a doctor will evaluate the patient by considering their general wellness and health history. The doctor will ask the patients about all current medications and ongoing health conditions. The doctor will also consider the patient's dietary habits, lifestyle, and activity level when making their personalized treatment plan.

It is important to reiterate that this treatment is part of an overall weight loss plan, including diet and exercise. Weight loss medication should never be considered a singular or long-term solution to weight loss and maintenance. Our team puts the patient's health first when considering weight loss medication.

Healthy weight, healthy life

Getting to a healthy weight is one of the best things you can do for your health. It helps reduce your risk of disease and feel more energetic and confident. Despite these benefits, losing weight is not always easy. If you have tried to reach your ideal weight and diet and exercise do not seem to be working, we may be able to help. Call us today to learn more about weight loss medication.

Request an appointment here: https://omgwellnessmd.com or call Optimal Medical Group at (559) 425-1118 for an appointment in our Fresno office.

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