Weight & metabolic health
Obesity and GLP-1 medications
Obesity is a chronic medical condition, not a lack of willpower. Today, FDA-approved medications such as GLP-1s, together with nutrition and lifestyle support, can help people lose a meaningful amount of weight and improve their health.
Understanding obesity
Obesity is influenced by genetics, hormones, sleep, stress, certain medications and the environment we live in. It raises the risk of type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, fatty liver, sleep apnea, joint pain and some cancers. Losing even 5 to 10% of body weight can improve many of these conditions.
What are GLP-1 medications?
GLP-1 medications act like natural hormones that help control appetite and blood sugar. They help you feel full sooner, reduce cravings and slow how quickly the stomach empties. These medications are available as weekly injections, and some are now available as daily pills.
Learn more about our medical weight management program.
Who may qualify?
Weight loss medications are generally FDA-approved for adults with a BMI of 30 or higher, or 27 or higher with a weight-related condition such as high blood pressure or prediabetes. Some are also approved for teens. Your doctor will review your health history to decide whether medication is right for you.
Common side effects
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or constipation, which usually improve as your dose is adjusted
- Reduced appetite and feeling full quickly
Less common but serious risks include pancreatitis and gallbladder problems. GLP-1 medications are not used during pregnancy or by people with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid cancer or MEN2. Your doctor will review your risks with you.
How we help
- Care led by a physician board certified in obesity medicine
- A full medical evaluation before starting treatment
- Monthly visits to adjust dosing and manage side effects
- SECA body composition tracking to make sure you lose fat, not muscle
- Nutrition guidance, including vegetarian diets
- Help reviewing your insurance coverage, or our self-pay monthly plan
FAQ
Common questions
How much weight can I lose on a GLP-1?
Results vary. In clinical trials, many people lost about 15 to 20% of their body weight over a year or more, combined with diet and activity changes.
Will I need to stay on the medication?
Obesity is a chronic condition, and some people regain weight after stopping. Your doctor will discuss a long-term plan, which may include a maintenance dose.
Are compounded GLP-1s the same?
No. We use FDA-approved medications, which are tested for safety, strength and quality.
Related topics
Keep learning
- Prediabetes and insulin resistance
- PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome)
- Type 2 diabetes
- Fatty liver disease
This information is for general education and does not replace a visit with your doctor.
Start your medical weight loss plan
Book online or call 630-242-2455.