What Medications Cause Weight Loss?

What Medications Cause Weight Loss?

Many people struggle to lose weight, especially as they get older. Even if you’ve tried diet and exercise, you may find that all your efforts haven’t helped you to drop any pounds.

It’s common for both men and women to start looking to weight loss medications to help them slim down. There are many different weight loss medications available for long-term use. Here, we’ll review the most sustainable weight loss medications that can help you reach your weight goals.

Weight Loss Medications for Men and Women

Phentermine

Phentermine is an FDA-approved medication that’s prescribed for short-term use (typically up to 12 weeks.) An appetite suppressant and stimulant, this pill is taken once daily to help you feel less hungry. Phentermine produces the best results when combined with a regular exercise routine and a lower-calorie diet.

Semaglutide

Originally made for Type 2 diabetes, semaglutide helps you feel fuller, reduces hunger and helps boost your energy levels. Injected once a week, it increases your insulin (which decreases your blood sugar) while also inhibiting the secretion of glucagon (a hormone that increases your blood sugar.)

Basically, semaglutide tricks your brain into thinking your stomach is full by regulating your blood sugar. This helps prevent you from giving in to cravings and can support your weight loss when combined with a nutritious diet and exercise.

Qsymia

Qsymia combines two medications, Phentermine and Topirmate. This FDA-approved prescription weight loss medication has a one-two-punch effect for weight loss: It decreases your appetite while increasing your metabolism.

Taken once a day, It can help satisfy your hunger with smaller food portions by dialing down the hunger signals in your body. To be a candidate for Qsymia, men and women typically must have a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 or higher. 

Qsymia alone isn’t a miracle weight loss medication. For long-lasting results, you’ll need to use it alongside proper nutrition and regular exercise.  

Contrave

Contrave is a combination of two different drugs, Bupropion and Naltrexone. Bupropion is an antidepressant that also suppresses your appetite. Naltrexone treats addiction and cravings. Together, they form a weight loss partnership that helps to curb your food cravings.

Contrave is taken daily as a pill. Like all other weight loss medications, it’s not a magic potion. To optimize your weight loss, you should take Contrave while also eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly.

Learn How to Keep the Weight Off and Feel Your Best

Losing weight doesn’t have to be a constant battle. Our medical weight loss professionals and hormone doctors can help you determine the best approach for your weight loss. Schedule a consultation by calling us at 480-526-4384 or contact us online today.