Do you suffer from serious health issues due to your weight? Has your doctor told you to drop a few pounds? Are you having trouble losing the extra baby fat? Have you tried diet and exercise but haven’t been able to reduce your weight and keep it off significantly? At Simply Slim Medical, we understand that weight loss can be complex for many patients, and sometimes, additional professional help is needed to achieve your health goals.
Weight loss can be attainable with prescription weight loss medicines.
Phentermine
Phentermine Hydrochloride Phentermine is a medicine available by prescription that is used to reduce appetite and increase metabolism. It is an excellent solution for weight loss because it can make you less hungry or help you feel full longer and on smaller amounts of food than usual. This medicine is often prescribed for short-term use and as a part of a more extensive weight loss program that may include increased physical activity, a healthy, balanced diet, and other lifestyle changes. Phentermine is also offered in combination with other medicines for weight loss.
Lasix (Furosemide)
Furosemide is a diuretic, often referred to as a water pill. It can be used as a standalone treatment but often in combination with other medications to aid weight loss. It works by helping the body shed excess fluid. Even with diet and exercise, excess water weight can appear on the scale as unwanted pounds, effectively chipping away the motivation to continue with your weight loss journey. Reducing excess fluid can help you see your weight loss results even sooner.
Metformin (Glucophage)
Metformin is a prescription medicine that can help manage the glucose level in the blood and is used by physicians to treat prediabetes, gestational diabetes, and type 2 diabetes. This oral medicine performs much like WEGOVY and Ozempic (semaglutide) to increase insulin sensitivity and tell our bodies to respond to the hormone (insulin) when it is released. Metformin can help support weight loss, primarily combined with other medications and lifestyle changes.
Topiramate/Topamax
Topamax (topiramate) is a prescription medicine that can help reduce weight. It is often used with phentermine as an effective weight-loss solution for patients with obesity.
Fluoxetine
Fluoxetine is a prescription medicine that belongs to a group of medications known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). While it is commonly used to treat depression, it has been found to help weight loss in some individuals by suppressing appetite, leading to reduced caloric intake and lasting weight loss. Like many weight loss medicines, fluoxetine is often prescribed for short-term use.
HCG
HCG Weight loss programs that include human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) medications often produce excellent results. This is because hCG can help patients who start a very low-calorie diet (VLCD) stay on track with their programs, meaning impressive weight loss is a possibility. Simply Slim Medical only uses pharmaceutical-grade hCG to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the medicine.
Prescription Weight Loss Meds FAQs
How do I get a prescription for weight loss medication?
To get a prescription for weight loss medication, you’ll need to consult a healthcare provider, such as Dr. Wolins at Simply Slim Medical in Bethesda. During this consultation, your doctor will evaluate your overall health, review your weight loss history, and assess any medical conditions that could impact treatment. This process typically involves checking your Body Mass Index (BMI), reviewing your medical history, and discussing your weight loss goals.
What should I expect during a consultation for weight loss medication?
Your consultation with a provider like Dr. Wolins will involve a comprehensive evaluation. The doctor will review your medical history, perform a physical exam, and discuss any lifestyle changes you’ve tried to lose weight. Blood work may also be ordered to rule out underlying conditions such as thyroid issues or diabetes. The goal is to determine if prescription weight loss medication is a safe and appropriate option for you.
How long does it take to see results with prescription weight loss medications?
Results with prescription weight loss medications can vary from person to person. Some patients may start to see changes within a few weeks, while others may need a couple of months to notice significant results. Medications often work best when combined with lifestyle changes, such as a healthy diet and regular exercise. The benefit of undergoing a prescription medication-based weight loss program under the care of the Simply Slim team is that your progress will be closely monitored to ensure you are getting the best results possible. Dr. Wolins will adjust your treatment plan as needed based on your medical needs.
What are the potential side effects of prescription weight loss medications?
While prescription weight loss medications can be effective, they may also come with potential side effects. Common side effects include nausea, constipation, headaches, and dizziness. In rare cases, more serious side effects like elevated heart rate, high blood pressure, or mood changes can occur. It’s important to discuss any side effects with your doctor so they can adjust your treatment if necessary. Often, patients agree that the benefits of prescription weight loss medication — including medical benefits such as joint pain relief and reduced systemic issues — outweigh the potential side effects.
Can prescription weight loss medications be used long-term?
Some weight loss medications are approved for short-term use, while others can be prescribed for long-term management. Your doctor will evaluate how you respond to the medication and whether it remains effective over time. Long-term use is generally considered safe when monitored by a healthcare provider, but it is essential to follow your doctor’s guidance closely.
Are there any medical conditions that make weight loss medications unsafe?
Certain medical conditions may make weight loss medications unsafe. For example, individuals with a history of heart disease, uncontrolled high blood pressure, or severe liver or kidney disease may not be good candidates for these medications. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should also avoid weight loss drugs. Dr. Wolins will assess your medical history to make sure he is using the safest approach to your weight loss journey.
Contact Us in Bethesda and Tysons
If you are ready to learn more about how these medications can help you achieve and maintain weight loss, contact our office today to speak with one of our experts by calling our Bethesda location at 301.658.2019 and our Tysons location at 703.988.7823 today!