Understanding The Different Weight Loss Medications and How They Work

One of the most significant lifestyle changes you can make for your overall health and wellness is shedding any excess pounds you may be carrying.

Obesity and being overweight have been linked to conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and hypertension.

However, the reality is healthy weight loss poses a significant challenge for many people. For some, diet and exercise alone may just not cut it.

This is where Dr. Sashidhar Ganta and his team at NuSelf Bariatrics in Austin and Cedar Park, Texas, can help you make a difference. With a range of prescription weight loss medications, we offer a medically supervised healthy weight loss solution tailored to your needs.

This article explores how some of the most common medications work, breaking down their mechanisms and effectiveness.

Phentermine

Phentermine, one of the most common prescribed weight loss medications, stimulates your brain’s hypothalamus to release chemical messengers that suppress hunger.

Taken as a daily pill, phentermine can help you feel less hungry, promoting portion control and healthier eating habits. It’s generally prescribed for short-term use, typically for 3 to 6 weeks, and intended to work with diet, exercise, and lifestyle changes.

Side effects may include dry mouth, insomnia, or constipation, and it is essential to work closely with Dr. Ganta to manage these effects properly.

Lomaira

Lomaira is a unique formulation of phentermine designed to provide controlled appetite suppression throughout the day.

Taken three times daily before meals, Lomaira offers more flexibility for those who need consistent control over hunger. The lower dose allows for customized treatment plans, making it a versatile option for many people.

Like phentermine, Lomaira’s effectiveness maximizes when combined with a healthy lifestyle and requires careful monitoring for potential side effects.

Topamax

Topamax, or topiramate, was initially used as an anticonvulsant and migraine medication but has shown effectiveness in weight loss.

Its mechanism for weight loss is not fully understood, but it suppresses appetite and may alter your perception of taste, making certain foods less appealing. Topamax can be prescribed alone or in combination with other weight-loss medications.

Contrave

Contrave combines two active ingredients, naltrexone and bupropion, that work together to suppress your appetite and cravings.

Naltrexone is an opioid antagonist, which helps reduce food cravings, while bupropion is an antidepressant that can boost your metabolism.

This combination makes Contrave fantastic for weight loss, targeting physical hunger and emotional eating. It’s usually taken as a sustained-release tablet and requires you to commit to a comprehensive weight loss program for best results.

Qsymia

Qsymia combines phentermine and topiramate and provides appetite suppression and control over cravings.

It’s designed for long-term use and offers a dual-action approach that can be particularly effective for those with significant weight loss goals.

Qsymia is taken once a day and is part of a broader weight management plan that includes diet and exercise.

Importance of professional guidance

Weight loss medications are potent tools, but they require careful management. At NuSelf Bariatrics, Dr. Ganta assesses your overall health, lifestyle, and specific needs to prescribe the best medication for you.

He also monitors your progress closely to ensure that the medication works correctly, making any adjustments as needed. This personalized care helps optimize weight loss success and ensures your safety.

Common misconceptions about weight loss medications

There are often misconceptions surrounding weight loss medications, such as the belief that they are a “magic pill” for weight loss. These medications are most effective when combined with a balanced diet, regular exercise, and ongoing support from Dr. Ganta.

Understanding the real benefits and limitations of these medications can lead to more realistic expectations and successful weight loss journeys.

If you are currently on a weight loss journey and seeing no results despite your best efforts, weight loss medication may be best for you. Book a consultation with us online or call one of our offices to explore your options.