Like many people who have tried to lose weight in the past, you’re likely here because you’re overwhelmed by the sheer number of weight loss solutions out there. 

Perhaps you’ve spent money on a few yourself with no result. 

The list of potential treatments is endless from weird diets that have become mainstream to supplements and regulated medications. 

But what is true and what is not? Do all options work for everybody? Which weight loss drugs and treatments are backed by science and not fueled by marketing gimmicks? 

In this article, we explore several weight loss treatments. We explore diet-based treatments, exercise and physical activity, and non-surgical weight loss methods. We also examine each type of treatment’s pros and cons, who it is best for, and who should avoid it.   

 

Diet-based weight loss treatments

 

Diet-based weight loss treatments focus on what you put into your body and how often you eat. For many people trying to shed body weight, food is usually the first thing they try to change. 

Here are some of them: 

 

Ketogenic (keto) diet

A keto diet is one that tries to limit your intake of carbohydrates in favor of more fat and protein. In its purest form, the keto diet requires 75-90% of your daily calories coming from fat.  

Naturally, the cells in the human body use glucose as their main source of energy or fuel. Carbs ultimately break down to glucose. The keto diet tries to manipulate this situation such that the body pulls energy from elsewhere, particularly stored fat in the liver. 

Through a process called ketogenesis (where the name comes from), the liver breaks down fat and converts it to ketones. 

This process can only happen when an individual takes less than 20 to 50 grams of carbohydrates daily, depending on the body weight and size. Doing this daily for 2-4 days will lead to a state where your body begins to primarily depend on your fat stores for energy. 

 

Who is the keto diet best for?

Many people do not know this, but the keto diet is one of the primary prescribed solutions for treatment-resistant epilepsy, particularly in children, helping to minimize the occurrence of epileptic seizures. 

For weight loss, the keto diet is a great option for those with type 2 diabetes and Class III obesity. Researchers found that being on a keto diet for 12 months helped participants with diabetes yield an average weight loss of 30 pounds. The study also revealed that the diet “reversed diabetes for up to 60% of participants.”  

 

Who should avoid the keto diet?

A Keto diet is not great for those with preexisting liver conditions, as the process of converting fat to ketones puts a strain on the liver. The same applies to people with chronic digestive and kidney diseases and conditions affecting their pancreas, liver, thyroid, or gallbladder. 

Also, the additional fat intake poses a risk to the heart, so it should be avoided by those with preexisting heart conditions. 

 

Pros of the keto diet

• Great for short-term weight loss and is perfect for jumpstarting your chronic weight management program. 
• Makes you feel less hungry due to fat taking a longer time to digest.
• Improves insulin sensitivity.

 

Cons of the keto diet

• Keto diet may be hard to sustain. It’s hard to consistently make 75-90% of your daily calorie intake fat.
• Many people on a keto diet opt for unhealthy fat choices like unsaturated fats, which are risk factors for heart and cardiovascular disease. 
• The keto diet is very strict and anchored on fat consumption. This can potentially lead to nutrient deficiency.
• Constipation is a common theme for keto dieters due to limited fiber intake. 

 

Paleo diet

The Paleo Diet mimics the eating patterns of our ancestors during the Paleolithic era. It emphasizes whole, unprocessed foods like lean meats, fish, fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds, excluding grains, legumes, dairy, and processed sugars.

The guiding principle of the paleo diet is that during this throwback era, humans suffered fewer diseases and were able to control weight gain. 

The proponents argue that since our DNA and makeup haven’t changed much, eating what our ancestors ate should boost weight loss and overall health. 

 

Who is the paleo diet best for?

The paleo diet can be a good option for individuals who want to lose weight and focus on removing processed foods from their diet. 

It’s also a great option for individuals with metabolic disorders; being low-carb can also help regulate blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity.

 

Who should avoid the paleo diet?

The paleo diet is not great for vegans or vegetarians because it excludes legumes, further limiting their sources of protein. It may not also be for people with CKD or digestive disorders like diverticulitis or diverticulosis. 

Those already enduring or at high risk of osteopenia or osteoporosis should avoid it. 

 

Pros of the paleo diet

• Like the keto diet, the paleo diet is also great at kick starting weight loss in the short term.
• Paleo is a great diet for those suffering from high blood pressure and looking to reduce their body mass index. 

 

Cons of the paleo diet

• Requires significant commitment to meal planning mainly because the diet is all about fresh foods. 
• Can also be expensive, again, because fresh food like meat and fish are more expensive. 
• It’s nearly impossible to track what each person’s ancestors ate as this may vary from region to region.
• Since the paleo diet excludes dairy, there’s a high risk of vitamin D and calcium deficiency as most people get their daily dose of these nutrients from dairy. 

 

Mediterranean diet 

Many health practitioners recommend the Mediterranean diet for long-term, sustainable weight loss, as it does not exclude certain meals. 

The key focus of the Mediterranean diet is on consuming plant-based foods, healthy fats like olive oil, lean proteins (especially fish), and moderate dairy and wine consumption. 

It’s perhaps one of the most scientifically scrutinized diets, with many studies affirming its many benefits, including longer life and producing weight loss. 

 

Who is the Mediterranean diet best for?

The truth is that the Mediterranean diet works for everyone, primarily because the diet does not totally exclude certain types of food. 

So, individuals still get a healthy dose of all the essential nutrients the body needs while still accommodating indulgences such as alcohol and red meat. 

 

Who should avoid the Mediterranean diet?

As we mentioned above, the Mediterranean diet works for most people. The only blip is for those allergic to seafood, but such individuals can replace fish and seafood with tofu and poultry meat. 

Individuals seeking more rapid weight loss may also not find it appealing because progress is slow and gradual.

 

Pros of the Mediterranean diet

• Perfect for long and sustainable weight management.
• Has multiple health benefits, including preventing heart disease and stroke and reducing risks of obesity and diabetes. 
• Being predominantly plant-based makes this diet good for the environment. 

 

Cons of the Mediterranean diet

• One downside of this diet is that there’s no playbook for portion sizes and the exact amount of food you should consume. Words like moderate that describe this diet can be interpreted in different ways, making caloric control difficult. 
• It’s also likely your grocery bill will go up. 
• Weight loss may be slow compared to other diets. 

 

Intermittent fasting

As the name suggests, intermittent fasting involves alternating between periods of eating and fasting. The fasted period varies across and can be adopted in different ways. 

One of the most common applications is the 16:8 method, which includes fasting for 16 hours and only eating during an 8-hour window. 

Another variant is the 5:2 method, in which you can eat normally for five days and then restrict your calories to 500-600 on two non-consecutive days per week.

Intermittent fasting is similar to the keto diet in that it also induces the body to depend on ketones for energy instead of glucose. 

 

Who is intermittent fasting best for?

Anyone looking to lose weight and become more disciplined with their eating should consider intermittent fasting. It is a great way to curb late-night snacking. 

It’s also great for individuals with busy lifestyles who want to lose weight, as it doesn’t require consistent meal prep.

 

Who should avoid intermittent fasting?

Those on high blood pressure and heart condition medications should avoid intermittent fasting. This is because intermittent fasting may lead to “imbalances of sodium, potassium, and other minerals during longer-than-normal periods of fasting.” 

Individuals with advanced diabetes, as well as pregnant or breastfeeding women, should also avoid it.

 

Pros of intermittent fasting

• It is time-saving and money-saving, as individuals do not need to commit time to meal planning or spend more money on groceries. 
• May also positively impact other health outcomes, such as the heart and mind. 
• Reduces the risk of diabetes.

 

Cons of intermittent fasting

• Being in fasted mode for too long can have the opposite effect: Your body switches to survival mode and stores fat instead of burning it. 
• May impact family lifestyle. For example, the fasting period may occur when individuals have family dinners. 
• Because there’s no particular food requirement, some individuals may end up eating unhealthy meals during their eating window, which again is counterproductive to weight loss goals and overall health. 

 

Exercise and physical activity

 

Exercise and physical activity are crucial for overall health and weight management. Examples of physical activity that can help you lose weight include:

 

High-intensity interval training (HIIT) 

HIIT involves alternating between short bursts of intense activity (like sprinting or jumping) followed by short rest periods or lower-intensity exercise. 

Each session typically lasts 20-30 minutes but is highly effective at burning calories in a short period, which is the primary selling point of this program. 

HIIT can also be adapted to swimming, which is known as aquatic HIIT (AHIIT). This makes it particularly helpful for older adults and people suffering from chronic diseases. 

 

Who is HIIT best for?

HIIT is perfect for most people looking to lose weight but are pressed for time. Because of its intense and condensed workouts, it is also best for those who want to lose a significant amount of weight within a short time frame. 

 

Who should avoid HIIT?

Anyone with chronic pain or conditions like arthritis, osteoporosis, or osteopenia should not attempt HIIT without clearance from their doctor. HIIT is also not advisable for pregnant women, women 3-6 months postpartum, or anyone with uncontrolled heart rate. 

 

Pros of HIIT

• Shorter but more intense workouts lasting 20-30 minutes.
• You’ll burn a significant amount of calories within that short span.
• It’s great for building muscles in addition to burning fat.

 

Cons of HIIT

• Not great for individuals who have been sedentary for a long time. Such individuals are better off easing in with regular exercise before switching to HIIT. 
• Longer recovery time.
• There’s also a high risk of injury, especially for beginners. 

 

Strength training (resistance training)

Strength training, also known as resistance or weight training, focuses on building muscle mass and burning calories by using weights (dumbbells, barbells) or bodyweight exercises (push-ups, squats). 

Although primarily for muscle growth, strength training is highly effective for fat loss because you’re burning calories during and after your workout. Per Harvard Health, “strength training may be especially important for keeping off belly fat.” 

 

Who is strength training best for?

Strength training is great for people of all ages and fitness levels. For those seeking to lose weight, it’s also the perfect physical activity for improving your muscle tone and strength while losing fat.

 

Who should avoid strength training?

People with certain joint or muscle conditions should consult with a healthcare professional to determine safe and effective strength training exercises for them. 

 

Pros of strength training

• Strength training is great as part of a holistic weight management strategy, as it helps maintain the weight you’ve lost. 
• May improve your metabolism, helping you burn calories faster. 
• Can be tailored to all fitness levels (using various weights or bodyweight).
• Fantastic long-term solution for losing and maintaining weight. 

 

Cons of strength training

• Without the proper form and technique, you may not extract maximum value and may also be exposed to potential injuries. 
• Fat loss might not be immediate.
• A requirement of strength training is consistent progression and challenge in order to not plateau.
• Often requires going to the gym, which may not be ideal for everyone. 

 

 Aerobic exercise (Cardio)

Cardio exercises, also known as aerobic workouts, include running, cycling, swimming, and walking. These exercises focus on increasing heart rate for a sustained period, usually for 30-60 minutes, to improve cardiovascular fitness and burn calories.

 

Who is aerobic exercise best for?

Anyone seeking general fitness improvements, like better endurance and cardiovascular health, in addition to weight loss, should consider adding aerobic exercise to their regimen. It’s also a prudent choice for individuals who prefer moderate, steady-paced exercises.

 

Who should avoid aerobic exercise?

While aerobic exercise can benefit anyone, people with certain conditions must understand their limits. Conditions like diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, and arthritis may impact how far they can push themselves. 

 

Pros of aerobic exercise

• Low-impact options like walking and swimming are available, making it accessible to a wide range of fitness levels.
• Significant cardiovascular benefits in addition to weight loss. 
• Long-lasting results with consistent effort.
• Can be started at home and doesn’t require the gym.

 

Cons of aerobic exercise?

• Location and environment may limit access. For example, there might be no ideal location for running or swimming in a particular location. 
• There’s potential for “overuse injury” due to overexerting a particular joint or muscle group. 
• Too much aerobic exercise also has negative implications, such as “impaired immune function, inadequate energy levels, and muscle cramps.” 

 

Non-surgical medical weight loss treatment

Non-surgical medical weight loss treatments offer effective options for individuals struggling with being overweight or obese. They are an alternative to going under the knife and perfect for those who may not be candidates for or who prefer to avoid surgical procedures.

These weight loss treatments range from weight loss medications and hormone treatments to non-invasive procedures. 

From our experience, these treatments often work in conjunction with dietary changes and exercise to maximize results.

 

Prescription medications for weight loss

These medications are FDA-approved obesity treatment drugs designed to aid in weight loss for people struggling with losing weight via traditional methods. 

This class of drugs is known as glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists. Common prescription medications include Orlistat, Phentermine-Topiramate, Liraglutide (Saxenda), and Naltrexone-Bupropion (Contrave).

These drugs aid weight loss by suppressing appetite, limiting the amount of fat the body absorbs, or altering the way the body metabolizes fat. 

 

Who is weight loss drug best for?

Doctors prescribe weight loss drugs for individuals who meet certain criteria, including:

 

• Individuals diagnosed with obesity and with a body mass index of 30+. Drugs approved for this category include Wegovy and Saxenda. 
• Individuals with a BMI ≥ 27 and weight-related health conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, or sleep apnea. Saxenda is also approved for this group.
• People with type 2 diabetes and struggling with their weight. Victoza is a popular option for this group. 

 

Who should avoid weight loss medications?

Until it’s specifically prescribed for you, we advise that you stay off any weight loss medication. The American Medical Association also recommends that patients who are pregnant or actively trying to get pregnant should avoid these drugs. 

 

Pros of weight loss medications

• Fast for accelerating weight loss. Patients report up to 20% weight loss after using them for at least a year. 
• FDA-approved and often medically supervised, reducing risk.
• Convenient. While the FDA recommends pairing weight loss medications with other lifestyle modifications and physical activity, using these drugs reduces the pressure on individuals. 

 

Cons of weight loss medications

• Side effects such as nausea, headaches, abdominal pain, insomnia, and digestive issues.
• Not advisable for long-term use.
• They are expensive and not covered by Medicare for obesity but for type 2 diabetes. 
• Not great for anyone with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid cancer. 

 

Injections for weight loss

Semaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist initially used to treat type 2 diabetes. 

These injections are administered via weekly injections and have shown promising results for significant weight loss when combined with diet and exercise.

The underlying mechanism is by targeting the part of the brain that regulates appetite and food intake. 

Looking for a reliable and expert provider for Semaglutide injections? LA ViE MD is your premier choice. With locations in Danville and Los Gatos, California, our experienced team of qualified doctors ensures safety, efficiency, and optimal results.

 

Who are weight loss injections for?

Weight loss injections like Wegovy and Ozempic are for individuals who either have a BMI of 30+ or those with a BMI above 26 and a weight-affiliated condition like type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure. 

 

Who should avoid weight loss injections?

Anyone who doesn’t meet the criteria above should avoid taking injections like Semaglutide. Furthermore, those with histories of medullary thyroid cancer, gallbladder disease, and pancreatitis should stay clear, even if they meet the above criteria. 

 

Pros of weight loss injections

• There’s clear scientific evidence from clinical trials that they work, with some patients losing up to 15-20% of their body weight.
• Also improves blood sugar control for those with type 2 diabetes.

 

Cons of weight loss injections

• They are not for everybody. 
• Expensive and may not be covered by insurance for weight loss.
• Requires weekly injections, which may cause some scheduling issues for busy individuals.

 

Hormone treatments for weight loss

Hormone imbalances can contribute to weight gain. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) may be considered in certain cases, such as menopause and hypothyroidism, to help regulate hormones and support weight loss.

Examples of treatments under this category include thyroid hormone therapy (for individuals with hypothyroidism), bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT), and testosterone replacement therapy.

 

Who is hormone therapy best for?

Individuals with diagnosed hormonal imbalances like hypothyroidism or low testosterone are prime candidates for hormone therapy. 

Doctors also prescribe hormonal therapy to postmenopausal women experiencing weight gain, particularly in the belly region, due to hormonal changes.

 

Who should avoid hormone therapy?

Hormone therapy is a specific kind of therapy, and your doctor will only recommend it when your obesity is caused by hormonal imbalance. As such, those without a diagnosed hormone deficiency or imbalance should avoid it. 

Additionally, people with certain cancers or a history of blood clots should equally not be treated with hormone therapy, as it can increase the risks of complications.

 

Pros of hormone therapy

• Addresses underlying issues leading to the inexplicable weight gain.
• May also reduce the risk of heart problems.
• Particularly effective against belly fat. 

 

Cons of hormone therapy

• Requires careful medical monitoring to avoid complications.
• Also carries potential side effects, which may vary depending on the type of hormone therapy. 

 

Emsculpt Neo and CoolSculpting (Cryolipolysis)

Emsculpt Neo and CoolSculpting are examples of non-invasive body contouring procedures. In a way, you can describe CoolSculpting or cryolipolysis as vacuuming the fat away, but that would be overly simplistic. 

CoolSculpting freezes fat cells in targeted areas using a process known as cryolipolysis. 

Once frozen, the fat gradually withers away over several weeks, leading to weight reduction in the targeted areas. It’s commonly used on areas like the abdomen, thighs, and arms.

On the other hand, Emsculpt Neo is a body contouring treatment that combines two technologies: High-Intensity Focused Electromagnetic (HIFEM) energy and radiofrequency (RF) energy. HIFEM contracts muscles at a much higher intensity than voluntary workouts, while RF burns fat by heating it.

The major difference between the two is that Emsculpt Neo can increase muscle mass and reduce fat in the treated area simultaneously, while CoolSculpting only reduces fat in the target area. 

 

Who is CoolSculpting and Emsculpt Neo best for?

CoolSculpting is apt for individuals close to their weight loss goals but dealing with stubborn localized fat deposits. Emsculpt Neo is the better choice for those seeking better muscle tone on top of fat reduction. 

 

Who should avoid CoolSculpting and Emsculpt Neo?

Those significantly overweight or obese, as CoolSculpting is not a weight loss treatment. It’s primarily for small, targeted areas. People with cryoglobulinemia or cold-induced conditions like cold urticaria should also avoid the procedure. 

 

Pros of CoolSculpting and Emsculpt Neo

• Minimally invasive treatments with little to no downtime. 
• Long-lasting results for stubborn fat areas that may not respond to diet and exercise.
• Natural-looking results.
• No scars or wounds.

 

Cons of CoolSculpting and Emssculpt Neo

• Although these procedures are safe, individuals may experience side effects like redness and swelling.
• Doesn’t address overall weight loss.
• The results for Coolsculpting are gradual, and noticeable changes start showing after 2-3 months.

 

LA ViE MD offers cutting-edge body contouring treatments, including Emsculpt Neo. Our expert team in Danville and Los Gatos, California, can help you achieve a sculpted and toned body. 

 

Which weight loss treatment is best for me?

Choosing a weight loss treatment is a highly personalized affair. Additionally, it’s not one you should take lightly without the input of a certified expert. 

Your doctor will assess information about your health and lifestyle and pair it with other factors like your budget to craft a holistic, individualized weight loss program that aligns with your specific needs and goals.

Key factors for consideration include:

 

• Health conditions: Existing medical conditions and medications can influence the treatment options available to you.
• Previous weight loss attempts: Your doctor will assess treatments that have worked and failed in the past. 
• Weight loss goals: Your doctor will consider the amount of weight you want to lose and the desired timeline. 
• Age and gender: Factors like menopause and metabolic rate due to age may also impact the treatments doctors can prescribe. 
• Budget: Another major factor to consider includes the cost of treatments and the availability of insurance coverage. 

 

Takeaway: Your path to lasting weight loss success begins with LA ViE MD

Each weight loss treatment option presents unique benefits, potential drawbacks, and varying suitability for different lifestyles and health conditions.

This comprehensive comparison guide has provided valuable insights into various weight loss treatments, highlighting their pros, cons and suitability. 

If you’re considering diet-based programs, exercise routines, or non-surgical medical treatments, understanding your options is crucial.

Understanding the pros and cons of each approach can help you make informed decisions and embark on a successful weight loss journey. 

Are you ready to take the next step? 

At LA ViE MD, we offer a range of weight loss treatments, including Emsculpt Neo, CoolSculpting, and Semaglutide injections. Our experienced team of medical professionals can help you achieve your desired weight goals.

Book a consultation today and discover the LA ViE MD difference.

 

FAQs

Here are the answers to some common questions about weight loss treatments: 

 

What do overweight and obesity mean?

An individual with a body mass index over 25 is considered overweight, while a BMI over 30 is classified as being obese. 

 

How prevalent are overweight and obesity?

According to the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 30.7% of adults are overweight and a staggering 42.4% have obesity. 

 

What is the most effective weight loss treatment?

There’s really not one most effective weight loss treatment, as what works for person A may not work for person B. Oftentimes, the most effective weight loss treatment will combine multiple treatments, including making lifestyle changes, healthy eating habits, and realistic goals.

 

How do weight loss medications work?

Weight loss medications work in various ways. Some common mechanisms include appetite suppression, enabling prolonged feelings of fullness after eating, blocking fat absorption, and increasing metabolism to burn calories quicker. 

 

Who could benefit from using weight management medications?

People who may benefit from weight management medications typically have a BMI of 30 or higher (obesity) or a BMI of 27 or higher with weight-related health conditions like high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes. 

 

What distinguishes over-the-counter weight loss medications from prescription ones?

The primary difference between over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription weight loss medications lies in their strength, potential side effects, and the level of medical supervision required. OTC medications are less potent and available without prescription, while prescription weight loss medications are more potent and only prescribed by a qualified healthcare professional. 

 

How should weight loss medications be combined with other treatment methods?

For sustainable results, weight loss medications should be combined with long-term lifestyle changes, including a healthy, balanced diet and regular physical activity. Additionally, you can use procedures like Coolsculpting and Emsculpting Neo to supplement the drugs to get rid of stubborn fat. Your healthcare professional would be in the best position for personalized guidance.

 

What advantages do prescription medications offer for weight loss?

Prescription weight loss medications offer many advantages, including being noninvasive, minimal downtime, and guaranteed results, with multiple reports of 15—to 25% weight loss.

 

What concerns should be considered when using prescription weight loss medications?

The major concerns when using these drugs include potential side effects, interactions with other medications, and underlying health conditions.

 

Which weight management medication could be suitable for me?

You can only determine the most suitable weight management medication for you after consulting with a healthcare professional. They’ll consider factors like your medical and weight loss history, underlying health conditions, and your current BMI. 

 

For how long should weight loss medications be taken?

Duration depends on the drugs you’ve been prescribed. Some medications are approved by the FDA for only a few weeks, and some are for long-term weight loss treatment, like Wegovy. Ultimately, continuation depends on if the drug is working and how comfortable you are with the side effects.

 

Can weight loss drugs lead to depression or thoughts of self-harm?

While there have been multiple reports of suicidal thoughts to the FDA, there’s been no clear evidence establishing a concrete link between suicide and weight loss drugs. 

 

Are there any medications that may lead to weight gain?

Steroids, antidepressants, and diabetes medications are examples of drugs that may lead to weight gain. 

 

How do these medications influence weight regain?

These medications don’t influence weight regain. Weight regain often happens if you solely depend on medications to lose weight without appropriate lifestyle modifications. 

 

Which weight loss medications are known to suppress appetite?

Examples of weight loss medications that suppress appetite include Wegovy, Ozempic, Saxenda, Qsymia, Contrave, and Imcivree. 

 

Can medications serve as a substitute for physical activity and healthy eating in weight loss efforts?

No, think of these medications as a way to jumpstart your weight loss journey. You’ll also need to make lifestyle changes, chiefly increasing your physical activity and having a healthy relationship with food, to sustain the weight you lost. 

 

Are weight management medications safe for children or teenagers?

Wegovy is an FDA-approved drug for treating obesity in children and teens above 12 years old. Imcivree is approved for children over 6 years old. 

 

Is it common to regain weight after discontinuing weight management medication?

Yes, and this happens when you don’t pair weight loss medications with physical activity, balanced diet, and other healthy lifestyle choices. 

 

Will insurance typically cover the expenses associated with weight management medication?

Insurance companies rarely cover treatments associated with weight loss. However, if the treatment is for obesity-related conditions like high blood pressure, then your payer may cover the cost of these drugs. 

 

What medications are currently available for treating overweight and obesity?

Six FDA-approved weight management drugs are available, including orlistat, phentermine-topiramate, naltrexone-bupropion, liraglutide, semaglutide, and tripeptide.

 

How do healthcare professionals use prescription medications “off-label” for weight management?

Healthcare providers sometimes prescribe medications “off-label” for weight loss, meaning the drug is approved for another condition, used in combination with others, or for longer durations than FDA-approved. It’s important to ask questions and understand the medication before starting an off-label weight loss treatment.

 

What other weight loss medications may be available in the future?

Combination therapy is one of the potential new options that may be available in the market soon. These drugs combine different medications with complementary mechanisms of action to offer enhanced weight loss benefits. For example, there are drugs in the pipeline that contain glucagon and the GLP-1 hormone present in Wegovy. 

 

Which weight loss medication is considered the safest?

All FDA-approved weight loss medications are very safe. They all present different side effects, and reactions to each drug may also vary from person to person. 

 

What is the most efficient option for weight loss?

The most efficient option for sustainable, long-term weight loss is to jumpstart your efforts with prescription medications and then make lifestyle changes such as regular physical activity, eating healthy, getting adequate sleep, and more. 

 

Is there a connection between antidepressant medication and weight loss?

Although not intended by the makers, some antidepressant medications may have similar effects to the likes of Wegovy. Antidepressants like fluoxetine and duloxetine impact your appetite, leading to weight loss.