Medication Assisted Weight Loss

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Is this just about looks?

Over 70 percent of the US population is classified as overweight or obese based on their BMI.  Excess body fat leads to or worsens diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, sleep apnea, arthritis, and certain cancers.  Looking and feeling better is a huge bonus in emotional and physical well-being.

How do these medications work?

Semaglutide (most commonly known by the brand name Ozempic) is a GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) activating medication. It causes the sensation of fullness in your stomach (without surgery) and therefore reduces food intake and body weight. Tirzepatide (most commonly known by the brand name Mounjaro) similarly has GLP-1 and also a second hormone GIP (gastric inhibitory polypeptide) activating effects which affect insulin secretion. Insulin manages blood sugar processing in your body.  These medicines were first developed for use in diabetes and were found to be additionally beneficial in weight loss.

How do I know if it's appropriate for me?

You are an adult over the age of 25 with good understanding of your health and how to balance the potential benefits and risks of medications.

Your BMI (body mass index) is over 30 (obesity) or over 25 (overweight) in addition to having or being at risk for weight-related health problems.  You can calculate your BMI here: BMI Calculator

You have tried losing weight through diet and exercise and have hit a wall on achieving your goals.  You intend to continue diet and exercise in addition to using and monitoring a medication for weight loss as instructed.

You are not pregnant and will not be pregnant during the time you are on medication assisted weight loss.

You do not have a personal or family history of a rare type of cancer called medullary thyroid cancer or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome Type 2. (There appeared to be a slight increase in this rare condition in rats so we avoid using it in humans to be extra cautious.)

You have not had a bariatric (weight loss) surgery in the last 12 months or are taking other medications for weight loss.

You have not been diagnosed with an eating disorder, an unstable psychiatric illness such as psychosis, bipolar disorder, or suicidality, severe kidney disease, pancreatitis, dehydration, low blood pressure, or another active uncontrolled illness for which your body is currently under stress.

What can I expect when I take this?

You can expect to feel less hungry and to feel full more quickly when you eat.  About 1 in 8 people who take this class of medication might notice some nausea. This is often avoided by raising the dose gradually to allow the body to adjust.

You can expect to lose significant weight during the weeks to months you are on the medication and to be able to adjust the rate of weight loss based on the changes in dose we agree on.

How will we monitor this medicine?

You will call me anytime you have any questions or concerns. 

You will check in with me every four weeks to discuss your weight loss, how you feel on the current dose, and to decide whether to adjust the dose for your next four weeks.

You will have labs before starting and every 3 months or sooner if there are any concerns or questions or other conditions that need monitoring.

How long do I stay on it?

You can use it as long as it is still meeting your goals of losing weight at a safe pace without making you feel bad.  Many people will use it for 3 to 6 months to achieve their goals.

After you reach your weight loss goals, you are welcome to stay on as a patient under our usual primary care subscription rate of $99 per month.  You can cancel your service at any time and it ends in 30 days.

How do I get started?

Sign up: HERE

Then call 210-521-6328 to schedule your initial appointment or for any questions before, during or after signing-up and I'll guide you through them.  We'll be ready to go in no time!