Virtual Weight Loss Program

GLP-1 medications, also known as glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists, have been a game-changer in the field of weight management. These medications work by mimicking the natural hormone GLP-1, which plays a crucial role in regulating blood sugar levels and appetite. By enhancing the body’s natural mechanisms for controlling hunger and promoting a feeling of fullness, GLP-1 medications can lead to significant weight loss.

Semaglutide is a medication that has emerged as a potent and promising option for individuals seeking effective weight loss. While it was originally designed as a treatment for type 2 diabetes, it has gained significant attention and popularity as a weight loss aid.

How it Works:

• Appetite Suppression: Semaglutide affects the brain’s appetite centers, reducing feelings of hunger and increasing a sense of fullness. This results in decreased food intake, making it easier for individuals to consume fewer calories.
• Slower Gastric Emptying: Semaglutide slows down the emptying of food from the stomach. As a result, individuals experience prolonged satiety after meals, which helps them eat smaller portions and reduce overall calorie intake.
• Calorie Deficit: By curbing appetite and promoting a feeling of fullness, Semaglutide assists in creating a calorie deficit. When the body burns more calories than it consumes, weight loss occurs.

Medications to Avoid When Taking Semaglutide

The following drugs are known to have interactions with a Semaglutide:

• atorvastatin
• levothyroxine
• lisinopril
• phentermine
• Synthroid (levothyroxine)

Possible Semaglutide Side Effects:

The most common side effects of a Semaglutide may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach (abdominal) pain, and constipation. Other more serious side effects can be:

• Possible thyroid tumors, including cancer. Tell your health care provider if you get a lump or swelling in your neck, hoarseness, trouble swallowing, or shortness of breath. These may be symptoms of thyroid cancer. It is not known if a Semaglutide will cause thyroid tumors or a type of thyroid cancer called medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) in people.
• Inflammation of your pancreas (pancreatitis). Stop using a Semaglutide and call your health care provider right away if you have severe pain in your stomach area (abdomen) that will not go away, with or without vomiting. You may feel the pain from your abdomen to your back. Tell your health care provider if you have changes in vision during treatment.
• Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). Your risk for getting low blood sugar may be higher if you use a Semaglutide with another medicine that can cause low blood sugar, such as a sulfonylurea or insulin. Signs and symptoms of low blood sugar may include: dizziness or lightheadedness, blurred vision, anxiety, irritability or mood changes, sweating, slurred speech, hunger, confusion or drowsiness, shakiness, weakness, headache, fast heartbeat, and feeling jittery.
• Kidney problems (kidney failure). In people who have kidney problems, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting may cause a loss of fluids (dehydration), which may cause kidney problems to get worse. It is important for you to drink fluids to help reduce your chance of dehydration. Stop using a Semaglutide and get medical help right away if you have any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat; problems breathing or swallowing; severe rash or itching; fainting or feeling dizzy; or very rapid heartbeat.
• Gallbladder problems. Gallbladder problems have happened in some people who take a Semaglutide . Tell your health care provider right away if you get symptoms which may include: pain in your upper stomach (abdomen), fever, yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), or clay-colored stools.

Oral phentermine Hydrochlorid (HCL) is sold for weight loss. It is in the lower case Sympathomimetic family of appetite suppressants (Used for the management of exogenous obesity.) Phentermine is a prescription medication primarily used for short-term weight loss management. It is classified as a sympathomimetic amine, which means it works by affecting the sympathetic nervous system to suppress appetite. Here’s how it generally works:

1. Appetite Suppression: Phentermine primarily acts on the hypothalamus, a region of the brain responsible for regulating hunger. It stimulates the release of certain neurotransmitters, specifically norepinephrine and dopamine, which are associated with the “fight or flight” response. By increasing these neurotransmitters’ levels, phentermine helps reduce feelings of hunger and increase feelings of fullness, leading to a decreased desire to eat.
2. Norepinephrine Release: Phentermine promotes the release of norepinephrine, a neurotransmitter that affects various bodily functions, including appetite control. Increased levels of norepinephrine can lead to an increase in metabolic rate and energy expenditure, which can contribute to weight loss.
3. Central Nervous System Stimulation: Phentermine also has stimulant properties that can increase alertness and energy levels. This can potentially help individuals engage in physical activity and burn more calories.

It’s important to note that phentermine is typically prescribed for short periods, usually a few weeks to a few months, due to concerns about potential side effects and the development of tolerance. The exact mechanism of action of phentermine is not fully understood, and its effectiveness can vary from person to person.

Phentermine is intended for use in conjunction with a comprehensive weight loss program that includes dietary changes, increased physical activity, and behavioral modifications. It’s generally recommended for people who have a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher, or for those with a BMI of 27 or higher who also have weight-related health conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol.

As with any medication, phentermine can have side effects and interactions with other medications, so it should only be used under the guidance and supervision of a healthcare professional. If you’re considering using phentermine for weight loss, it’s important to discuss its potential benefits and risks with your doctor to determine if it’s an appropriate option for you.

What to avoid while taking Phentermine

Phentermine is a prescription medication commonly used to aid weight loss. However, it’s important to note that phentermine may not be suitable for everyone due to its potential side effects and interactions with other medications or medical conditions. Individuals who fall into the following categories should generally avoid or use caution when considering the use of phentermine:

1. Cardiovascular Issues: Phentermine can increase heart rate and blood pressure, which could be problematic for individuals with a history of heart disease, high blood pressure, arrhythmias, or other cardiovascular conditions.
2. History of Substance Abuse: Phentermine is a stimulant that can be habit-forming. Individuals with a history of substance abuse, including drugs or alcohol, should avoid using phentermine due to the risk of addiction.
3. Hyperthyroidism: Phentermine can affect thyroid function, potentially worsening conditions like hyperthyroidism, an overactive thyroid.
4. Glaucoma: Phentermine can increase intraocular pressure, which could be harmful for individuals with glaucoma.
5. Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: The safety of phentermine during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been well established. It’s generally recommended to avoid using it during these periods.
6. Certain Medications: Phentermine can interact with various medications, including MAO inhibitors, other weight loss medications, and certain antidepressants. It’s important to discuss all medications you’re taking with your healthcare provider before starting phentermine.
7. Severe Anxiety or Mental Health Disorders: Phentermine is a stimulant that can exacerbate anxiety and other mental health disorders. Individuals with severe anxiety, depression, or other mental health conditions should use caution.
8. Allergies or Sensitivities: If you have a known allergy or sensitivity to phentermine or similar medications, you should avoid its use.
9. Age Considerations: Phentermine is typically not prescribed to individuals under 18 years of age or over 65 years of age due to potential risks and lack of data on safety and efficacy in these populations.
10. Liver or Kidney Issues: Phentermine is metabolized in the liver and excreted by the kidneys. Individuals with severe liver or kidney impairment may need to avoid phentermine or have their dosage adjusted.

Contrave® is a prescription-only, FDA-approved weight loss pill that may help obese adults with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 kg/m2 or greater lose weight and keep it off. The medication combines two older drugs: naltrexone (an opioid antagonist used to treat alcohol and drug dependence) and bupropion (an antidepressant also used as an adjunct for smoking cessation).Together, these drugs target both hunger cues and cravings in the brain, helping people to eat less and feel more satisfied after eating. Contrave® is NOT approved to treat depression or other mental illnesses.Contrave® is available only by prescription. Contrave® may be prescribed as a tablet. It’s always important to follow the specific instructions on your prescription, as they can vary based on the formulation and dosage you are prescribed.

What to avoid while taking Contrave®

Contrave® has 700 drug interactions. Don’t change what you take without checking with your doctor or pharmacist. That includes other prescription drugs or supplements, as well as over-the-counter medications.

Here’s a list of things you should avoid while taking Contrave®:

• Don’t drink alcohol. It can increase the risk of seizures.
• Don’t take other medications that also contain bupropion. This includes Wellbutrin/Wellbutrin XL/Wellbutrin SR.
• Don’t take Contrave® if you have an eating disorder.
• Don’t take Contrave® if you’re pregnant or planning to become pregnant. It’s unknown if the medication passes into breast milk and could harm a nursing baby.
• Don’t take Contrave® if you have kidney problems.
• Don’t take Contrave® if you are on monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs).
• Don’t take Contrave® if you are on opioid pain medicines. Discontinue these opioid-containing medicines 7 – 10 days before taking Contrave® to avoid opioid withdrawal symptoms. There is also the risk of opioid overdose.

Qsymia is an FDA-approved prescription medicine designed to assist adults who are seeking to lose weight or have weight-related medical problems. By incorporating Qsymia into their weight loss journey, individuals may experience the following benefits:

1. Effective weight loss: Qsymia has demonstrated its potential to aid in substantial weight loss and support long-term weight management.
2. Appetite suppression: The combination of phentermine and topiramate effectively reduces hunger, helping individuals better control their food intake and cravings.
3. Improved weight-related medical conditions: Qsymia has shown promising results in improving weight-related medical problems, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and cardiovascular issues.

 What to avoid while taking Qsymia

• If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, avoid using Qsymia. This medication may make a newborn more vulnerable to the birth condition known as cleft lip and palate.
• Avoid Qsymia if you are allergic to Phentermine or Topiramate or if you have glaucoma or overactive thyroid.
• Before taking Qsymia, inform your doctor in the past 6 months if you have heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, liver or kidney disease.
• Only the person for whom it was prescribed should use phentermine due to the possibility of addiction.
• Topiramate can cause permanent vision problems if not treated timely. If your vision suddenly worsens, call your doctor right away.
• Some people have suicidal thoughts while taking Topiramate. Be cautious of any changes in your symptoms or mood. Inform your doctor if any of your symptoms change or get worse.
• Qsymia can increase heart rate. Inform your doctor if you have fast or pounding heartbeats.
• Growth in teenagers on Qsymia should be monitored because the medication is linked to slowed linear growth.
• Glaucoma
• Overactive thyroid
• Heart problems
• High blood pressure
• Diabetes
• Soft or brittle bones
• Soft or brittle bones
• Mood problems or depression
• Are using or if you’ve taken one of these drugs within the previous two weeks monoamine oxidase inhibitor (isocarboxazid, phenelzine, selegiline, tranylcypromine)
• Any other prescription and nonprescription medications, supplements or herbal products you are taking
• Are pregnant or breastfeeding

During pregnancy, weight loss can harm an unborn baby. While taking Qsymia, use an effective birth control method to avoid getting pregnant.

Xenicalis® considered a weight loss medication, which works by blocking the enzyme that breaks down dietary fat. The undigested fat then passes out of the body through bowel movements. Therefore, orlistat interferes with dietary fat absorption.

What to avoid while taking Xenical®

Xenical® has 132 drug interactions. Don’t change what you are taking without checking with your doctor or pharmacist. That includes other medications, supplements, and other drugs.

Possible drug interactions with Xenical® include:

• Insulin and other medications that affect glycemic control
• HIV or AIDs medications
• Seizure medication
• Beta-carotene, vitamin E, and other fat-soluble nutrients
• Blood thinners and antiretroviral drugs

Xenical® does not interact with alcohol, but make sure to ask your doctor for medical advice before drinking alcohol while taking orlistat.

Saxenda® is considered a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist, which functions by increasing feelings of fullness, so people eat less and lose weight. Like all glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists this medication can only be used for weight loss. Saxenda® is an injectable prescription medication for obesity and weight-related medical problems. It is in a class of drugs called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists. It increases feelings of fullness, so people eat less and lose weight.

What to avoid while taking Saxenda®

Saxenda® has 250 drug interactions. Don’t change what you take without checking with your doctor or pharmacist. That includes other medications or supplements, as well as over-the-counter drugs.

The following drugs are known to have interactions with Saxenda®:

• atorvastatin
• levothyroxine
• lisinopril
• phentermine
• Synthroid (levothyroxine)

This is a partial list. Talk to your doctor if you have currently on any medication before taking Saxenda®.

Saxenda® should be used with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity for weight loss. You should avoid eating high-fat meals while taking this medication.

Saxenda® can cause low blood sugar levels. To help prevent this, avoid consuming alcohol or sugary foods/drinks while taking this medication.

This medication may also cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Drink plenty of fluids to help prevent these side effects and avoid overheating or dehydrating. Saxenda® can also cause dizziness. If you experience this side effect, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery.

Talk to your doctor about other medications you should avoid while taking Saxenda®, such as insulin or blood sugar-lowering medications. You should also avoid taking any other weight-loss medications while on Saxenda®.  Don’t change what you take without checking with your doctor or pharmacist. That includes other prescription drugs, supplements, as well as over-the-counter medicines.

Ask your doctor or pharmacist if it is acceptable to consume alcohol while taking Saxenda®. Drinking alcohol may cause severe low blood sugar.