Do Medical Weight Loss Programs Really Work?
Medical weight loss programs have become popular among people who struggle to shed pounds through traditional diet and exercise. These programs often take a comprehensive approach that combines nutrition, physical activity and, in some cases, prescription medications.
For both men and women, medical weight loss offers an enticing path to achieving lasting results. But do they really work?
The short answer is yes. When used correctly, medical weight loss programs can be highly effective. Success depends on the program’s structure, the patient’s commitment and the effectiveness of the tools used to address the underlying causes of weight gain.
Diet and Exercise Still Matter
A healthy diet and regular exercise are still the keys to losing weight and keeping it off. That’s true even for people who go the route of medical weight loss. A clean eating plan that emphasizes lean proteins, healthy fats and fiber-rich carbohydrates can help regulate appetite and boost metabolism.
Exercise, especially strength training and cardiovascular activity, further supports fat loss and muscle preservation. Both are important in controlling weight over the long term.
However, many people find that diet and exercise aren’t enough. Hormonal imbalances, metabolic resistance and psychological barriers can all slow progress. That’s where medical weight loss options can come in.
Medical Weight Loss Options
Medical solutions, including both bioidentical hormones and FDA-approved medications, offer a targeted approach to stubborn weight issues. These treatments can address hormonal or metabolic dysfunctions that contribute to weight gain or make weight harder to lose.
At Balance Hormone Center, we’ve found several options that can produce sustainable weight loss results for men and for women:
Wegovy
Wegovy (active ingredient semaglutide), the weight-loss version of the diabetes drug Ozempic, is a once-weekly injection that mimics the GLP-1 hormone. The GLP-1 hormone helps regulate appetite and blood sugar.
Semaglutide is shown to significantly reduce weight when combined with lifestyle changes. It’s especially helpful for individuals with insulin resistance or type 2 diabetes.
Qsymia
Qsymia combines phentermine (an appetite suppressant) with topiramate (a seizure medication that promotes a feeling of fullness). This dual-action approach can lead to substantial weight loss, particularly in individuals who struggle with portion control and binge eating.
Contrave
Contrave merges bupropion (an antidepressant) with naltrexone (used for addiction treatment) to target the brain’s reward system and reduce cravings. Combined, this can be effective for weight loss. It’s particularly effective for emotional eaters or those whose weight gain is linked to mood disorders.
Phentermine
Phentermine is a stimulant that suppresses appetite. Typically used as a short-term solution, it can jumpstart weight loss and motivate patients to commit to longer-term lifestyle changes.
Tailored to Men and Women
Men and women face different hormonal challenges. For women, menopause, thyroid dysfunction or PCOS can lead to weight gain. Men may experience reduced testosterone or metabolic slowdowns with age.
Medical weight loss programs take these differences into account, often including hormone panels to identify imbalances and guide treatment.
Weight-loss drugs may not work for everyone, and some people may experience side effects. Plus, some drugs are not recommended for women who are pregnant or people with cardiovascular issues. It is always recommended to work with a doctor who can prescribe treatment that can be both safe and effective for you.
Are You Considering Medical Weight Loss Options?
The team at Balance Hormone Center loves helping men and women improve their health through weight loss. Our professionals are ready to meet with you, listen to your concerns and guide you on your path toward a healthier weight.
Please contact us to schedule a consultation. We have offices in Arizona and Iowa.
