Weight Loss Medication Information

Semaglutide is typically administered as a once-weekly injection, although there is also a daily oral formulation available.

• Semaglutide has been shown to reduce appetite and food intake, leading to weight loss.
• It acts on receptors in the brain involved in the regulation of appetite and satiety, helping individuals feel fuller and less hungry.
• Helps to lower blood sugar levels by mimicking the action of natural GLP-1, a hormone produced in the intestine in response to food intake. GLP-1 stimulates insulin secretion from the pancreas, which helps to regulate blood sugar levels by promoting the uptake of glucose into cells. 
• GLP-1 receptor agonists like semaglutide also slow down the emptying of the stomach, which can help to reduce postprandial (after-meal) spikes in blood sugar levels.
• Common side effects may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and injection site reactions.

Tirzepatide is typically administered as a once-weekly injection.

• GLP-1 receptor agonists like tirzepatide can reduce appetite and food intake, leading to weight loss. Additionally, they may slow down the emptying of the stomach, which can contribute to feelings of fullness and reduced calorie intake. 
• Tirzepatide acts as an agonist at the GLP-1 receptor agonist. GLP-1 is a hormone produced in the intestine in response to food intake. GLP-1 receptor activation stimulates insulin secretion from the pancreas in a glucose-dependent manner, meaning that it only enhances insulin secretion when blood sugar levels are elevated. This helps to lower blood sugar levels without increasing the risk of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).
• Tirzepatide also inhibits the secretion of glucagon, a hormone produced by the pancreas that raises blood sugar levels by stimulating the liver to release glucose. By reducing glucagon secretion, tirzepatide helps to lower blood sugar levels.
• Common side effects may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and injection site reactions.

Bontril (phendimetrazine), Phentermine, and Tenuate (diethylpropion) are medications classified as sympathomimetic amines.

• Stimulates release of neurotransmitters in the brain involved in the regulation of appetite and satiety, making it easier for individuals to adhere to a reduced-calorie diet.
• Activates the sympathetic nervous system, which may lead to an increase in energy expenditure. This may be due to its effects on increasing heart rate and metabolic rate, which can help individuals burn more calories throughout the day.
• May also promote the release of stored fat from adipose tissue through its effects on norepinephrine (a neurotransmitter). This can lead to increased fat oxidation and weight loss.
• Side effects may include increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, insomnia, dry mouth, and constipation. 

Metformin is a medication classified as a biguanide.

• Helps to lower blood sugar levels by decreasing the production of glucose in the liver. As a result, it can decrease the accumulation of fat in the liver. This reduction in liver fat may contribute to overall weight loss.
• Useful in the treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
• Improves insulin sensitivity in peripheral tissues, which enhances glucose utilization, and potentially reduces intestinal glucose absorption. 
• Some people may experience reduced appetite or decreased food intake while taking metformin. This can lead to a reduction in calorie intake, which may contribute to weight loss over time. Any weight loss achieved with metformin is likely to be modest.
• Side effects most commonly include gastrointestinal disturbances such as upset stomach, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Other side effects include lightheadedness or a metallic taste in the mouth. These symptoms often occur when starting metformin or when the dosage is increased and may improve over time.

Semaglutide - available in oral form. See the injectable section (above) for information.

Lipo-Sculpt Cream (Aminophylline): When applied topically, aminophylline is believed to have a lipolytic (fat-reducing) effect due to its ability to penetrate the skin and break down fat cells by disrupting their structure and releasing stored fat into the bloodstream, where it can then be metabolized and excreted. Some studies suggest that it may have a modest effect on reducing the appearance of cellulite.

Metformin is also available in transdermal cream form. One in three patients taking oral metformin will experience side effects, which may lead some to discontinue therapy. In these instances, metformin cream may be a viable alternative. The formulation allows the drug to be absorbed through the skin while bypassing the gastrointestinal system and thus avoiding many of the unpleasant side effects.