Medications for Obesity: Options, Effectiveness & Side Effects
Obesity is a growing health concern affecting millions worldwide. While diet and exercise are the cornerstones of weight loss, sometimes they aren’t enough. Fortunately, several FDA-approved medications can help support your weight loss journey when combined with lifestyle changes.
These medications aren’t “magic pills,” but they can be highly effective when used correctly and under medical supervision. Let’s explore six popular medications for obesity, including their regimens, potential side effects, and efficacy. If you’re ready to take the next step, Kings & Queens Medics is here to provide personalized treatment plans to fit your unique needs.
1. Orlistat (Alli®, Xenical®)
How It Works: Orlistat is a lipase inhibitor that prevents your body from absorbing about 30% of the fat you eat. Instead, this undigested fat is eliminated through your stool.
Regimen:
- Xenical (prescription): 120 mg three times a day with meals.
- Alli (over-the-counter): 60 mg three times a day with meals.
Side Effects:
- Oily stools
- Increased bowel movements
- Flatulence
- Abdominal discomfort
Efficacy: Studies show that people taking orlistat lose about 5-10% of their body weight over 12 months when combined with a reduced-calorie diet and exercise.
2. Phentermine-Topiramate (Qsymia®)
How It Works: This combination medication suppresses appetite (phentermine) and promotes feelings of fullness (topiramate).
Regimen:
- Initial dose: 3.75 mg phentermine / 23 mg topiramate once daily.
- After 14 days: May increase to 7.5 mg / 46 mg.
- Maximum dose: 15 mg / 92 mg.
Side Effects:
- Dry mouth
- Constipation
- Tingling sensations in hands and feet
- Increased heart rate
- Mood changes
Efficacy: Patients can lose 5-10% of their body weight within 12 months. Higher doses may lead to greater weight loss but may also increase side effects.
3. Naltrexone-Bupropion (Contrave®)
How It Works: Naltrexone (used for addiction treatment) and bupropion (an antidepressant) work together to reduce appetite and cravings.
Regimen:
- Start with one tablet (8 mg naltrexone / 90 mg bupropion) daily.
- Gradually increase to two tablets twice daily (total of 32 mg / 360 mg).
Side Effects:
- Nausea
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Insomnia
- Increased blood pressure
Efficacy: Studies indicate 5-9% weight loss over 12 months when combined with diet and exercise.
4. Liraglutide (Saxenda®)
How It Works: Liraglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist that mimics a hormone to reduce appetite and promote satiety.
Regimen:
- Subcutaneous injection: Start at 0.6 mg daily and increase by 0.6 mg weekly.
- Maximum dose: 3.0 mg daily.
Side Effects:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Injection site reactions
- Pancreatitis (rare)
Efficacy: People typically lose 5-10% of their body weight over a year. Liraglutide is effective when combined with lifestyle modifications.
5. Semaglutide ( Ozempic)
How It Works: Semaglutide is another GLP-1 receptor agonist that helps regulate appetite and food intake.
Regimen:
- Subcutaneous injection: Start at 0.25 mg weekly and increase gradually to 2.4 mg weekly.
Side Effects:
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Vomiting
- Risk of thyroid tumors (in animal studies)
Efficacy: Clinical trials show that semaglutide can lead to a 15% reduction in body weight over 68 weeks when combined with diet and exercise.
6. Tirzepatide (Mounjaro®)
How It Works: Tirzepatide is a dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist that enhances insulin secretion, reduces appetite, and delays gastric emptying.
Regimen:
- Subcutaneous injection: Start at 2.5 mg weekly. Increase by 2.5 mg every 4 weeks, up to a maximum of 15 mg weekly.
Side Effects:
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Injection site reactions
Efficacy: Studies suggest tirzepatide can result in up to 20% weight loss over 72 weeks, making it one of the most effective options currently available.
Which Medication is Right for You?
Selecting the right medication for weight management depends on your unique health profile, weight loss goals, and potential risks. Kings & Queens Medics offers comprehensive evaluations and personalized treatment plans tailored to your needs.
Our expert team is here to:
- Assess your medical history
- Recommend the most suitable weight loss medication
- Monitor your progress and adjust treatment as needed
- Support your journey to better health with ongoing consultations
Don’t let obesity hold you back. Book an appointment with Kings & Queens Medics today and take the first step toward a healthier, happier you!
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider to discuss the risks and benefits of any treatment.
Written By Dr. Andrew Waititu,
Pharmacist, Kings & Queens Medics
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