Prescription Weight Loss Supplements – Are They Right for You?

Weight loss and obesity have become hot-button topics in our country. The CDC reports that more than two-thirds of adults in America, age 20 or over are either overweight or obese. Many people struggle to lose weight on their own. While losing weight naturally with a healthy diet and exercise is typically considered the best weight loss option, some people may need a little extra help to get their weight under control. In some cases, prescription weight loss supplements may be necessary but how will you know if they’re right for you and which one is best? 

We are bombarded daily with advertisements for weight loss programs, meal plans, and dietary supplements. It can be overwhelming to decide which would be your best option. The best course of action is to consult with your physician or a medical weight loss professional. They will guide you in creating a safe, healthy weight loss plan and if it should include prescription weight loss supplements.

The Ideal Candidate

If you only have a small amount of weight to lose, prescription weight loss supplements may not be for you. They were developed to help individuals who are obese or facing a significant amount of weight loss. However, these supplements are not a magic bullet for weight loss. They are to be used in conjunction with diet and exercise. There are situations where patients who are not obese can still qualify for appetite suppressants to help lose that last 10 lbs.  A consultation with one of our providers would be the first step to see if appetite suppressants are right for you. 

Your BMI (body mass index) is used to determine if you are overweight or obese. If your body mass is between 25 and 30, you would be considered overweight. If it is 30 or more you would be considered obese. A BMI of 25 or more is often accompanied by various health issues such as diabetes, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure. If the excess weight isn’t addressed, these issues could lead to the risk of a stroke or heart disease. Your physician will take your weight and any health issues you may have into consideration when determining if prescription weight loss supplements are right for you and which one would be the best option.  

Prescription Weight Loss Supplements

Qsymia

Qsymia was FDA approved in 2012. Taken orally in tablet form, this prescription weight loss Supplement combines quick-release phentermine and extended-release topiramate. Phentermine stimulates the sympathetic nerves and reduces your appetite, while topiramate provides a feeling of fullness. It may even alter the taste of food, making it less appealing.

Contrave

Similar to Qsymia, Contrave is an oral prescription weight loss supplement that also combines two different drugs – bupropion and naltrexone. FDA-approved for weight loss in overweight or obese patients in 2014, Contrave works by targeting two different areas of the brain to reduce hunger and control cravings. Combined with diet and exercise, it has shown to increase weight loss.

Saxenda

Unlike Qsymia and Contrave which are taken orally, Saxenda is an injectable prescription weight loss medicine. It is a synthetic version of the GLP-1 hormone our stomach releases to slow down digestion and decrease appetite. Saxenda is taken daily via subcutaneous injection into the belly or thigh.

Be Patient

If your physician determines one of these prescription weight loss supplements could be beneficial in helping you lose weight and improve your overall health, keep in mind – it won’t happen overnight. Healthy, sustainable weight loss takes time and you will not lose weight by taking supplements alone  Your physician will also recommend a specific diet or meal plan as well as the proper level of exercise. 

Consult the Weight Loss Experts

At Vive Aesthetics and Wellness, we specialize in medical weight loss for overweight and obese individuals. Dr. Pinto is a member of the American Society of Bariatric Physicians and has served as the National Medical Director of The Center for Medical Weight Loss since October of 2014. He also is one of the only doctors in the area to have specialized training with Qsymia. If you are facing a significant weight loss challenge, don’t do it alone. Schedule a consultation today and find out if prescription weight loss supplements are right for you.