Purpose of Use

Ozempic is used to manage type 2 diabetes and support weight loss in individuals with obesity or related health conditions. It helps improve blood sugar levels and promotes a healthier lifestyle when combined with diet and exercise.

Type of Medication

Ozempic is a GLP-1 receptor agonist injected once weekly. It regulates appetite, enhances insulin sensitivity, and was initially approved for diabetes but also aids in weight management.

Efficacy and Benefits

Ozempic reduces appetite, increases fullness, and slows digestion, leading to significant weight loss. Studies show up to 15% body weight reduction and improved blood sugar control.

Dosage and Administration

Ozempic is injected weekly, starting at 0.25 mg and gradually increasing to 1 mg. Doses should be taken on the same day each week, with missed doses taken within five days.

Precautions and Other Notes

Ozempic may cause nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. It’s not recommended for those with thyroid tumors or pancreatitis and should be avoided during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Regular medical monitoring is advised.

Purpose of Use
Orlistat is designed to assist individuals in managing obesity by reducing the absorption of dietary fat, making it a suitable option for those aiming to lose weight in combination with a low-calorie diet and exercise.

Type of Medication
Orlistat is a lipase inhibitor, available both as a prescription (Xenical) and over-the-counter (Alli), targeting fat absorption in the digestive system.

Efficacy and Benefits
Clinical studies demonstrate that Orlistat users can achieve 5-10% weight loss over 12 months when paired with proper diet and exercise. The medication’s mechanism helps reduce calorie intake effectively.

Dosage and Administration
Xenical is prescribed at 120 mg three times daily with meals, while Alli is taken at 60 mg three times daily with meals. Both formulations should be consumed during or within one hour after a fat-containing meal for optimal results.

Precautions and Other Notes
Common side effects include oily stools, increased bowel movements, and abdominal discomfort. Individuals should limit fat intake to avoid gastrointestinal issues. Orlistat may interfere with the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins, requiring supplementation as directed by a healthcare provider.

Purpose of Use
Qsymia is intended for chronic weight management, helping individuals reduce appetite and promote satiety, particularly when combined with a healthy lifestyle.

Type of Medication
This medication is a combination of phentermine, an appetite suppressant, and topiramate, which enhances feelings of fullness, offering a dual-action approach to weight loss.

Efficacy and Benefits
Patients using Qsymia can achieve 5-10% weight loss within 12 months. Higher doses may lead to greater weight loss, although side effects may also increase.

Dosage and Administration
Treatment begins with 3.75 mg phentermine and 23 mg topiramate daily, gradually increasing to 7.5 mg/46 mg after 14 days. Based on efficacy and tolerability, the dose may be adjusted to a maximum of 15 mg/92 mg daily.

Precautions and Other Notes
Potential side effects include dry mouth, constipation, tingling sensations, and mood changes. It is unsuitable for use during pregnancy and requires regular monitoring of heart rate and mental health. Discuss any existing medical conditions with a healthcare provider before starting Qsymia.

Purpose of Use
Contrave is prescribed for weight management, specifically for individuals struggling with food cravings and appetite control, as part of a comprehensive plan involving diet and exercise.

Type of Medication
Contrave combines naltrexone, commonly used for addiction treatment, and bupropion, an antidepressant. Together, they work on the brain's reward system to reduce appetite and cravings.

Efficacy and Benefits
Clinical studies indicate that Contrave users may achieve 5-9% weight loss over 12 months when combined with lifestyle changes, making it an effective option for long-term weight management.

Dosage and Administration
Treatment begins with one tablet daily (8 mg naltrexone/90 mg bupropion), gradually increasing to two tablets twice daily. This stepwise increase minimizes potential side effects.

Precautions and Other Notes
Common side effects include nausea, headache, dizziness, and increased blood pressure. This medication is not suitable for individuals with uncontrolled hypertension or seizure disorders. Regular monitoring is recommended for safe use.

Purpose of Use

Saxenda is designed for weight management in individuals with obesity or overweight conditions coupled with related health risks, aiming to reduce appetite and promote satiety.

Type of Medication

Liraglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist administered as a daily subcutaneous injection, mimicking a natural hormone that regulates appetite and food intake.

Efficacy and Benefits

People using Saxenda typically lose 5-10% of their body weight over a year when combined with diet and exercise. It supports sustainable weight loss by reducing calorie intake and increasing feelings of fullness.

Dosage and Administration

Saxenda treatment starts at 0.6 mg daily, with a weekly dose increase of 0.6 mg until reaching the maximum dose of 3.0 mg daily. The injection can be administered in the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm.

Precautions and Other Notes

Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, which often subside with continued use. Rare but serious risks include pancreatitis. Saxenda is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Purpose of Use

Wegovy is prescribed for weight management in individuals with obesity or overweight conditions with related health risks, aiming to regulate appetite and food consumption.

Type of Medication

Semaglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist, is a once-weekly subcutaneous injection that enhances satiety and reduces calorie intake, leading to gradual weight loss.

Efficacy and Benefits

Clinical trials show that Wegovy can lead to a 15% reduction in body weight over 68 weeks when combined with diet and exercise, making it one of the most effective weight management medications.

Dosage and Administration

Treatment begins with 0.25 mg weekly, gradually increasing to the target dose of 2.4 mg weekly over several weeks. The injection can be administered in the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm.

Precautions and Other Notes

Side effects may include nausea, diarrhea, and risk of thyroid tumors based on animal studies. Individuals with a history of thyroid cancer or pancreatitis should avoid Wegovy. Routine medical monitoring is essential during treatment.