Essential Guide to Weight Loss Medications for Beginners

Let's explore how weight management medications function, their possible side effects, and when you might notice results

When prescribed a weight management medication, it's normal to have questions about what to anticipate and how to use it most effectively.

While some weight loss medications have received a huge amount of attention recently, these meds have been around for a long time. Understanding how these medications work and what to expect while taking them can help you feel more confident as you get started taking them.

What are the different weight loss meds, and how do they work?

Weight loss medications all aim to reduce extra body fat over time. This is so important for health because even a 5% to 10% decrease in weight can lead to clinically meaningful improvements in:

• insulin sensitivity and blood sugar levels

• blood pressure

• cholesterol levels

These improvements reduce the risk of developing diabetes, heart disease, and some cancers.

Appetite suppressants

Act on the brain to reduce hunger and make you feel fuller. They work by controlling certain chemicals that affect hunger.

Example: Phentermine (Adipex-P, Suprenza).

Fat absorption inhibitors

Work by reducing the effects of certain enzymes that break down fats in the digestive system, lowering the amount of fat absorbed by the body.

Example: Orlistat (Xenical, Alli).

Combination medications

Often include an appetite suppressant and another medication. These combined meds work to boost weight loss in a variety of ways.

Examples: Phentermine/topiramate (Qsymia) and naltrexone/bupropion (Contrave)

GLP-1 agonists

They mimic the natural GLP-1 hormone, which our bodies produce after eating. The medications help reduce appetite, make you feel full, slow digestion, and regulate blood sugar levels.

Examples:

• liraglutide (Victoza, Saxenda)

• semaglutide (Wegovy)

• tirzepatide (Zepbound)

Potential side effects

Weight loss medications can have potential side effects that will vary depending on the medication and the individual. It’s important to note that not everyone experiences side effects. They may be very significant for some people, while others experience only a few or none at all.

Here are some potential side effects commonly associated with weight management medications:

• Gastrointestinal issues: Nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, constipation, and abdominal discomfort are common side effects of weight management medications. Fat absorption inhibitors like orlistat may cause oily stools or increased urgency of bowel movements.

• Increased heart rate and blood pressure: Certain weight management medications, especially those with stimulant properties, like phentermine, can temporarily increase heart rate and blood pressure.

• Insomnia or sleep disturbances: Stimulant-based medications, including phentermine, can interfere with sleep patterns, making it difficult to fall asleep or stay asleep.

• Dry mouth and altered taste sensation: Some weight management medications can cause dry mouth or an unpleasant taste in the mouth.

• Headache or mood changes: Some individuals may experience mood changes, such as irritability, restlessness, or anxiety while taking weight management medications.

What to expect when taking weight loss meds

Before starting a weight management medication, it’s important to set realistic expectations.

The first few months

Your fasting blood sugar levels will be noticeably lower within a few weeks of treatment.

Weight loss can take a bit longer. You can expect to see results within about 3 months of starting the medication. Some people will notice weight loss within weeks.

If you haven’t lost much weight after 3 months of taking your medication, your healthcare team may recommend you switch to a different one.

From 6 to 12 months and beyond

Over time, you can generally expect to lose about 5% to 10% of your starting body weight with weight management medication, especially if you’re making changes to your diet and staying active.

With newer GLP-1 medications, this figure can reach 15% to 20% or more of baseline body weight for some people, as reported in one study of semaglutide.

The total length of time you take weight management medications will depend on your specific situation and weight loss plan.

Unpacking the stigma

These medications are not a magic solution for weight loss. They must be paired with changes to nutrition and lifestyle habits.

Obesity is a chronic medical condition, much like other health conditions. Take heart disease as an example. Just as you wouldn’t feel guilt or shame seeking treatment for heart disease, the same goes for taking medications to support weight loss.

Medication can be a powerful part of your treatment plan. Many have found it to be the tool they need to reach their weight loss goals. Continue to work closely with your healthcare team and lean on your support network as you get started with weight loss medications.