Medical Therapies

Tirzepatide (brand name Mounjaro) is a weekly subcutaneous injection. Typical weight loss with this medication is 15-20% of body weight over 12 to 18 months. This is a dual GLP-1 agonist and GIP agonist. It works to suppress appetite and slows stomach emptying. Effects may be seen with the first dose but can take several weeks to build up.

Tirzepatide (brand name Mounjaro) is a weekly subcutaneous injection. Typical weight loss with this medication is 15-20% of body weight over 12 to 18 months. This is a dual GLP-1 agonist and GIP agonist. It works to suppress appetite and slows stomach emptying. Effects may be seen with the first dose but can take several weeks to build up.

Liraglutide (brand name Saxenda) is a daily subcutaneous injection. Typical weight loss with this medication is 6% of body weight over 12 to 18 months. This is a GLP-1 agonist and works to suppress appetite and slows stomach emptying. Effects may be seen within a few days.

Orlistat (brand name Xenical) is an oral tablet and is available over the counter. Orlistat works by inhibiting the absorption of fat in the gut. Weight loss of up to 5% greater than with placebo is achievable but side effects in the gut are common.

Phentermine and topiramate (Qsymia) is a combination oral medication; a stimulant and an anticonvulsant. They work centrally to suppress appetite but are rarely used due to concerns about the side effect profile. Phentermine is a class C/Schedule 3 controlled drug.