Top Weight Loss Medications You Should Ask Your Doctor About
If you’ve been trying to lose weight and feel like diet and exercise just aren’t cutting it, you’re not alone — and it’s not a personal failure. It simply shows that lifestyle changes aren’t always enough when it comes to weight management.
At
Houston Family Practice, we’ve met countless patients who came to us feeling stuck and frustrated after trying everything they could on their own. Fortunately, advances in FDA-approved weight loss drugs are giving many of them new hope and real results.
But before you start searching for the latest pills or injections, let’s make one thing clear:
Weight loss medications aren’t a one-size-fits-all solution, and they’re never meant to replace healthy habits. That’s why it’s so important to work with a weight loss doctor who can help you choose the safest, most effective option for your body and your goals.
Whether you’re just curious or seriously considering it, here’s a rundown of the top medical weight loss treatments you may want to discuss with your doctor.
Get Expert Guidance for Your Weight Loss Goals
Why Consider Weight Loss Medications?
You might wonder, “Do I really need medication to lose weight?” That’s a fair question, and the honest answer is: It depends on your health, your goals, and what you’ve already tried.
In most cases,
medical weight loss treatment is recommended for people who:
Have a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher.- Have a BMI of 27 or higher with weight-related conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol.
- Struggle with hormonal imbalances like PCOS, insulin resistance, or thyroid disorders.
Weight loss medications won’t replace diet and exercise, but when used correctly, they can give your efforts an extra boost and help make the journey a bit easier.
Top FDA-Approved Weight Loss Drugs
With so many options on the market, it’s tough to know which weight loss medications are both safe and effective. The good news? Several have earned FDA approval for weight management, meaning they’ve been carefully tested and shown to help when used as part of a medically guided plan.
Here’s a closer look at some of the
safe weight loss options you may want to ask your doctor about:
1. Semaglutide (Wegovy/Ozempic)
You’ve probably heard the buzz about semaglutide — and it’s not just hype. First approved as Ozempic in 2017 for the treatment of Type 2 diabetes, semaglutide quickly drew attention for its weight loss benefits. After clinical trials showed significant results, a higher-dose version called Wegovy was approved in 2021 for long-term weight management.
How it works:
Semaglutide mimics a hormone that helps control appetite and blood sugar, making you feel fuller longer and reducing cravings. A clinical study showed that after six months, 87% of patients lost at least 5% of their weight, with more than half losing 10% or more.
How it’s administered:
Once-weekly subcutaneous injection.
Possible side effects:
Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and in rare cases, pancreatitis. Some people may also experience gallbladder issues or injection site reactions.
2. Phentermine-Topiramate (Qsymia)
This combination medication pairs phentermine, a widely used appetite suppressant, with topiramate, a drug originally for migraines and seizures that also helps curb hunger.
Why it’s popular:
Qsymia works on both appetite and food cravings, making it easier to stick to a reduced-calorie plan. However, it’s not suitable for everyone, especially those with certain heart conditions, so be sure to discuss risks with your weight loss doctor.
How it’s administered:
Taken daily as an oral capsule.
Possible side effects:
Dry mouth, insomnia, tingling in hands or feet, dizziness, mood changes, increased heart rate, and potential birth defects if used during pregnancy.
3. Bupropion-Naltrexone (Contrave)
If emotional eating tends to throw you off course, Contrave may be worth considering. This medication targets the brain’s appetite and reward centers, helping you resist cravings and avoid overeating.
Another thing to know:
Contrave is sometimes recommended for people who are also managing mood-related issues, such as depression, alongside weight concerns.
How it’s administered:
Taken daily as an oral tablet, with the dosage gradually increased over several weeks.
Possible side effects:
Nausea, constipation, headache, insomnia, increased blood pressure, and a risk of seizures (especially if taken improperly). It’s also not recommended for people with certain mental health or seizure conditions.
4. Liraglutide (Saxenda)
Like semaglutide, liraglutide works by regulating appetite, but it’s taken as a daily injection rather than weekly. While slightly less potent, it’s still an effective and safe weight loss option for long-term management.
When it’s used:
Weight loss doctors often recommend Saxenda for people with obesity who need steady support managing hunger and sticking with healthier lifestyle choices.
How it’s administered:
Daily subcutaneous injection.
Possible side effects:
Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, low blood sugar (especially when combined with other diabetes medications), and in rare cases, pancreatitis.
5. Orlistat (Alli/Xenical)
Orlistat offers a non-hormonal approach to weight loss by blocking the absorption of some dietary fats in your digestive system. Instead of affecting your appetite or metabolism, it works right in your gut to help reduce fat intake.
Key difference:
Alli is the lower-dose, over-the-counter version, while Xenical is prescription strength.
How it’s administered:
Oral capsule taken three times daily with each main meal that contains fat (breakfast, lunch, and dinner).
Possible side effects:
Potential vitamin deficiencies and unpleasant digestive side effects like oily spotting, gas with discharge, as well as frequent or urgent bowel movements. These effects are more likely when consuming high-fat meals.
How to Choose the Right Medical Weight Loss Treatment
Finding the right weight management solution isn’t about going with the trendiest pill or newest injection. It’s about choosing the best medication that fits your body, health history, and lifestyle.
At
Houston Family Practice, our weight loss doctors take the time to consider key factors, including:
- Your medical conditions, such as diabetes or high blood pressure.
- Your personal weight loss goals.
- Your daily habits, activity level, and eating patterns.
- Potential side effects or interactions with other medications.
What works for one person may not work for another. That’s why personalized medical advice matters. Our role is to help you find a safe weight loss option that supports your health and gives you the best chance at long-term success.
Start Your Personalized Weight Loss Journey with Houston Family Practice
We understand how frustrating it can be to put in effort and still not see the results you’re hoping for. But you don’t have to go through it alone. With the right guidance, there are safe weight loss options that can help you move forward.
Begin by consulting a certified weight loss specialist. They’ll work with you to make informed choices and build a treatment plan that suits your body, health, and lifestyle.
Ready to take the next step?
Houston Family Practice is open to help you find a weight management plan that feels right for you.
Wondering Which Weight Loss Option Is Right for You?
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it usually take to see results with prescription weight loss medications?
Results vary based on the medication, your body, and your overall plan. Some people notice changes within a few weeks, while others see gradual progress over several months. Your doctor can help set realistic expectations based on your chosen treatment.
Will I regain the weight if I stop taking weight loss medication?
Weight maintenance after stopping medication depends on your lifestyle habits. These medical treatments work best when paired with long-term healthy eating, exercise, and behavior changes—all of which help you keep the weight off even if you stop taking the medication.
Can FDA-approved weight loss drugs help with weight-related conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure?
Yes. Several FDA-approved weight loss drugs not only support weight management but may also help improve conditions like type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. Your doctor can guide you on options that may offer added health benefits.
Are prescription weight loss pills and injections suitable for people who only want to lose a small amount of weight?
Medical weight loss treatment is generally recommended for individuals with a higher BMI or those who have weight-related health risks. If you’re looking to lose a small amount of weight, your doctor may suggest alternative approaches, such as nutrition counseling or lifestyle coaching.
