When it comes to losing weight, most people think about dieting and exercise as the only options. However, in some cases, medical weight loss may involve the use of FDA-approved medications to help support your weight loss journey. These medications, when used appropriately and under medical supervision, can help speed up the process and enhance your results. In this blog, we will explore the role of medications in medical weight loss and why they may be an essential part of your weight loss plan.

How Weight Loss Medications Work
Medications for weight loss aren’t a magic solution, but they can be an important tool to help you overcome obstacles and accelerate progress. Weight loss medications work in different ways, depending on the medication and your unique needs. Here’s how they can help:

1. Suppressing Appetite:
   Some medications work by reducing hunger, making it easier to stick to your diet and avoid overeating. This helps you create a calorie deficit, which is necessary for weight loss.
2. Boosting Metabolism:
   Certain medications increase the rate at which your body burns calories, making it easier to lose weight by improving fat burning and energy expenditure.
3. Blocking Fat Absorption:
   Other medications work by reducing the amount of fat absorbed by your body, meaning fewer calories are absorbed, and more are excreted.
4. Improving Insulin Sensitivity:
   For those struggling with insulin resistance, certain medications can help regulate blood sugar levels, which in turn can support weight loss efforts and prevent weight gain.

Types of Weight Loss Medications
There are several FDA-approved medications available for weight loss. Some of the most common include:

1. Phentermine: A popular appetite suppressant used for short-term weight loss.
2. Orlistat (Alli): Works by preventing the absorption of some fats in your diet.
3. Liraglutide (Saxenda): A medication that mimics a hormone to help control hunger and food intake.
4. Bupropion-naltrexone (Contrave): Combines two medications to control appetite and cravings.
5. Semaglutide (Wegovy): An injectable medication that helps regulate blood sugar and reduce appetite.

Who Is a Candidate for Weight Loss Medications?
Weight loss medications are generally considered for individuals who:

• Have a BMI (Body Mass Index) of 30 or higher.
• Have a BMI of 27 or higher with weight-related health conditions such as high blood pressure or diabetes.
• Are struggling to lose weight through diet and exercise alone.

Potential Side Effects
While weight loss medications can be effective, they may also come with side effects. These can vary based on the medication and your individual health. Some common side effects include nausea, constipation, headaches, or increased heart rate. That’s why it’s crucial to use these medications under the guidance of a healthcare professional.