Weight Loss in Houma & Raceland, LA.
GLP-1 Medications
GLP-1 medications like Tirzepatide offer multiple health benefits. They help promote weight loss, maintain a healthy weight, lower blood sugar levels, and decrease the occurrence of cardiac events. GLP-1 medications mimic a hormone produced in our bodies when we consume food by acting as an incretin hormone it aids in digestion, suppresses appetite, and slows down the rate at which food leaves the stomach. This results in a feeling of fullness that lasts longer. Weight loss from the medication is most effective when combined with lifestyle interventions. Incorporating regular exercises and adopting a healthier diet alongside GLP-1 medications promote sustained weight loss.
Tirzepatide
Approved by the FDA for both diabetes and weight loss. Tirzepatide is a combination of Glucagon-like-peptde-1 (GLP-1) and gastric inhibiting polypeptide (G1P). Tirzepatide can help reduce blood sugar, lower hemoglobin, A1C, reduce appetite, slow down gastric emptying, and control cravings for sugar and carbohydrates.
Phentermine
Phentermine (Adipex) is a prescription only FDA approved medication that is approved for short term use as an appetite suppressant for the management of obesity. Phentermine has been available on the market since the 1950’s. It works for weight loss by telling your brain that you are not hungry.
Common Side Effects
Most Common: abdominal pain, constipation, heartburn, indigestion, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting
Timing of Side Effects
Noticeable when starting the medication and during escalating period.
What to Expect
Initial Effects and Dosage Adjustments
Starting the medication, a few patients may notice a decrease in appetite within the first few days. However, it is important to note that this is not the case for the majority of patients.
To ensure the best outcome and minimize common gastrointestinal side effects, patients are initially prescribed with a starter dose for the first four weeks within the first 28 days. Subsequently, the dosage is gradually increased by the healthcare provider until reaching a maintenance dose that provides optimal benefits.
Optimal Benefits and Timings
While some individuals may experience positive effects within the first two months of therapy, the majority will achieve the most optimal benefits after commencing their maintenance dose. It is worth mentioning that side effects may manifest within the first few days for certain individuals, while for others, they may occur as the dose is adjusted in subsequent weeks. It is important to note that some patients may not experience side effects at all.