Weight loss is a challenge for many, and despite their best efforts with diet and exercise, some people struggle to shed those extra pounds. If you’re one of them, you’re not alone.

Weight loss medications have gained a lot of popularity as an option for those who have found it difficult to lose weight with lifestyle changes alone. Helping people make long term improvements that help keep weight off long after they’ve stopped taking medication.

What Are Weight Loss Medications and How Do They Work?

Weight loss medications are prescription drugs designed to help people lose weight. They work by reducing appetite, helping you feel fuller for longer and can reduce the amount of fat absorbed from food.

These medications can be a helpful addition to a weight loss plan, especially for individuals who have a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or more, or 27 and above with obesity-related health conditions, such as Type 2 diabetes or high blood pressure. These medications are usually prescribed for long-term use alongside lifestyle changes, including a balanced diet and regular physical activity to get the best results possible.

If patients don’t commit to lifestyle changes alongside using weight loss medications thy won’t see as good results and are likely to put weight back on when they stop taking Wegovy or Mounjaro.

Common Types of Weight Loss Medications

Fat Absorption Inhibitors

Medications like Orlistat, work by preventing your body from absorbing fat from the food you eat. The unabsorbed fat is then excreted, resulting in a lower calorie intake. This approach can be beneficial for those who need to reduce their fat consumption for health reasons.

GLP-1 Agonists

GLP-1 agonists like semaglutide (sold under brand names like Wegovy and Ozempic) are newer medications that have gained popularity in recent years. They mimic hormones in your body that regulate appetite and food intake, helping you feel fuller sooner and for longer periods. These drugs can lead to significant weight loss over time, with studies showing a reduction of 10-15% of body weight in some patients.

How Much Weight Can You Lose on Weight-Loss Medication?

The results vary depending on the medication and person taking the medication, but on average, people taking weight-loss medication for a year can expect to lose 3% to 12% more of their total body weight than they would through lifestyle changes alone. This might not seem like a lot, but even losing 5%-10% of your body weight can have significant health benefits, such as lower blood sugar levels, reduced blood pressure, improved cholesterol levels and an overall decreased risk of heart disease.

Side Effects of Weight Loss Medications

While weight loss medications can be effective, they are not without side effects. Some common side effects include:

• Nausea
• Constipation
• Diarrhoea
• Headaches
• Dry mouth

These side effects are usually mild and tend to diminish as your body adjusts to the medication. However, in some cases, more serious side effects can occur, such as an increased heart rate or elevated blood pressure. Always consult with your doctor and have regular check-ups while taking these medications to monitor their effects.

Common Questions About Weight Loss Medications

How does medical weight loss help you lose weight?

Medical weight loss, or a medically supervised weight loss programme, is an approach designed to help patients achieve a healthier weight. These programmes often combine prescription medications, dietary changes, and physical activity to assist with weight loss. Unlike fad diets or quick fixes, medical weight loss is backed by clinical research and tailored to meet individual needs and are designed to keep weight off long term.

How do medications promote weight loss?

Weight loss medications work by targeting various processes in your body that influence weight. Some reduce appetite or make you feel full faster, while others block the absorption of fat from the food you eat. By modifying these biological responses, medications can help people control their calorie intake and lose weight more effectively when combined with lifestyle changes.

How much weight can you lose on weight-loss medication?

The amount of weight you can lose with medication varies, but most people experience between 3% to 12% more weight loss compared to lifestyle changes alone. Even losing a small percentage of your total weight can lead to a big improvement in your general health and help you feel better in your self.

How long does it take for weight-loss medication to work?

People begin to see results from weight loss medications within the first few months. However, the exact time frame can vary depending on the medication, dosage, and the individual. Some may see quicker results, while others may need to take the medication for a longer period before noticeable changes occur. It’s important to track your weight loss through both weigh ins and measurements to see your individual progress and stay motivated.

Is Weight Loss Medication Right for You?

If you’re someone who has struggled to lose weight through diet and exercise alone, and your BMI is high, weight loss medications may be the solution you’ve been searching for.

These medications can be especially beneficial for people with health conditions related to obesity, such as diabetes or high blood pressure. But remember, to get the best results you must combine weight loss medications with healthy food choices and lifestyle changes.

At Pharmaease, we believe in supporting individuals to take control of their health. We’re pleased to offer a range of medications such as Wegovy, Orlistat and Saxenda to help you take control of your weight and your health.

If you’re interested in weight loss medication, fill in our short form to find the most effective treatment for you. If you have any questions about the different medications available or want advice we’re here to help.

Don’t wait—reach out to Pharmaease today and take the first step towards a healthier, happier you.