Losing weight can feel like an endless struggle. You’ve tried countless diets, exercise routines, and lifestyle changes, but the results seem temporary or minimal. Whether it’s due to emotional eating, hormone imbalances, or difficulty controlling appetite, weight loss can be an uphill battle. Many people feel stuck, wondering if they’ll ever reach their ideal weight.

At Genesis Lifestyle Medicine, we understand that sustainable weight loss requires more than just willpower; it requires a personalized approach that considers your unique needs. One option that may help you on your journey is weight loss medication. These pills, formulated to suppress your appetite or boost your metabolism, can offer a much-needed aid to help you shed those stubborn pounds. Let’s explore the different weight loss pills that might work for you.

Phentermine

Phentermine is a prescription weight loss pill that works by stimulating the release of neurotransmitters like norepinephrine and dopamine in your brain. These chemicals help suppress appetite and increase your metabolism. By mimicking the effects of adrenaline, phentermine boosts fat-burning properties. It primarily targets the brain’s hunger signals, reducing your desire to eat, making it easier to stick to a reduced-calorie diet.

Phentermine can lead to a weight loss of 3-5% of your initial body weight within the first few weeks. Typically, patients who take 37.5mg of phentermine daily lose an average of 16 pounds over 12 weeks. However, phentermine is only FDA-approved for short-term use.

Contrave

Contrave is a combination of two medications: naltrexone and bupropion. Naltrexone helps reduce cravings, while bupropion influences brain chemicals that control hunger and reward. Together, these medications work to curb appetite and emotional eating. This dual action makes Contrave particularly effective for people who struggle with overeating or emotional eating.

Studies show that Contrave can help individuals lose 5-10% of their initial body weight after taking it for a year. While not as effective as other weight loss medications, it’s still a viable option for people looking to control cravings and reduce emotional eating.

Qsymia

Qsymia combines two drugs: phentermine and topiramate. Phentermine suppresses appetite, while topiramate helps you feel full longer by affecting neurotransmitters in your brain. Together, they reduce hunger and increase energy expenditure. Qsymia also alters how your body stores and burns fat, making it a comprehensive tool for weight management.

Qsymia is one of the most effective weight loss pills. Clinical studies show that 70% of people using Qsymia lose at least 5% of their body weight, and nearly 50% lose at least 10%. For the best results, it should be taken alongside a balanced diet and regular exercise routine.

Orlistat

Orlistat is a weight loss medication that inhibits the enzymes that break down fats in your digestive system. As a result, a portion of the fat from your meals is not absorbed and passes through your body. This helps reduce the number of calories you take in from fat. Orlistat does not affect your appetite but helps limit your calorie intake by reducing fat absorption.

Orlistat can help individuals lose 5-10% of their body weight over one year. It is often recommended for people who struggle with fat intake or have difficulty cutting out high-fat foods. Taking Orlistat alongside a reduced-fat, low-calorie diet enhances its benefits.

Try weight loss injections for improved efficacy

If you’re looking to enhance the effectiveness of your weight loss regimen, consider adding weight loss injections. These injectable medications can provide greater weight loss results than oral pills, especially when used in conjunction with a balanced diet and exercise routine. Below are some popular weight loss injections that might help you achieve your goals.

Zepbound (tirzepatide)

Zepbound is a dual GLP-1 and GIP receptor agonist that enhances insulin sensitivity and reduces hunger. It slows down digestion and helps the brain regulate hunger more effectively. By acting on multiple pathways, it promotes fat burning and helps regulate blood sugar levels. In clinical trials, Zepbound has shown remarkable results, with patients losing up to 20% of their weight. It’s particularly effective for people with type 2 diabetes.

Wegovy (semaglutide)

Wegovy is a GLP-1 receptor agonist that helps regulate blood sugar levels and suppresses appetite. It mimics a natural hormone that tells your brain you're full, helping you reduce food intake. Wegovy also improves insulin sensitivity, making it beneficial for people with metabolic syndrome or prediabetes. Wegovy has been shown to help people lose up to 15% of their body weight over a year. Clinical studies confirm that Wegovy’s appetite-suppressing effects lead to significant and sustained weight loss.

Saxenda (liraglutide)

Saxenda, like Wegovy, is a GLP-1 agonist that reduces appetite by acting on the brain’s hunger centers. It also helps to regulate blood sugar levels and improve metabolism. Saxenda has a slightly different dosage regimen, being injected daily rather than weekly, but it provides similar benefits in reducing food intake. Saxenda can help individuals lose 5-10% of their body weight within six months. Its effectiveness is enhanced when combined with lifestyle changes.

At Genesis Lifestyle Medicine, we believe that weight loss is not a one-size-fits-all journey. Whether you opt for prescription pills or weight loss injections, it’s important to choose the treatment that aligns with your goals, lifestyle, and medical needs. Our specialists can help you determine the best plan for your unique situation. Schedule a consultation and let us guide you on your weight loss journey, so you can achieve the healthy lifestyle you deserve.