Medical Weight Loss
Physician-Supervised Weight Loss Programs
Evidence-based, personalized care combining medication, lifestyle guidance, and accountability — tailored to your body, health history, and goals.
Your Weight Loss Consultation
Your initial consultation will take about 45–60 minutes. During this time, we'll review your medical history, discuss your future goals, and set up a personal program. This program can take between 3 months to years to help you attain your weight loss and health goals.
Prescriptions may not be covered under your insurance. Labs will be ordered through LabCorp or Quest and usually can be paid by your health insurance provider. Coronary calcium studies can also be ordered based on your risk of future heart disease.
We also discuss your risk for early cancer and can suggest other studies, such as a Prenuvo full body MRI scan or Galleri cancer screening tests.
Weight loss is not recommended for pregnant women.
Treatment Options
Weight Loss Injectable Medications
GLP-1 RA Injections
GLP-1 RA (glucagon-like peptide 1-receptor agonists) medications were first released in 2004 for diabetic patients. Over the past several years, they have been used for weight loss as they not only help shed pounds but also decrease the risk of developing diabetes, inflammation, heart disease, and cancers.
GLP-1 RAs reduce appetite by slowing the release of insulin, shorten gastrointestinal transit times, and improve feelings of fullness.
Commonly used medications include tirzepatide, semaglutide, liraglutide, Mounjaro, Zepbound, Ozempic, Wegovy, Victoza, and Saxenda. We also prescribe compounding formulations, if needed.
Side effects: Potential side effects include nausea, vomiting, constipation, diarrhea, abdominal pain, or pancreatitis. Someone with a history or family history of medullary thyroid cancer or multiple endocrine neoplasia may not be eligible for these medications.
Weight Loss Monitoring
Phentermine
Phentermine (Adipex or Lomaira), FDA approved in 1959, is an inexpensive appetite suppressant which can be used intermittently for weight loss in short-term durations. Chemically and pharmacologically related to amphetamines, it carries the potential for tolerance and/or addiction.
Side effects: Potential side effects include dry mouth, constipation, agitation, elevated heart rate and/or blood pressure, and increased intraocular pressure.
Exercising Regularly
Topamax (Topiramate)
Topamax, or topiramate, was originally studied for those with seizure disorders. Further research shows it helps with weight loss, soda addiction, alcohol addiction, and migraine prevention. Topiramate may also help prevent altitude sickness when climbing or hiking in the mountains and can be combined with phentermine as Qsymia, which can be taken long term.
Side effects: Potential side effects include dizziness, dry eyes, dry mouth, change in taste, potential to increase intraocular pressure, and difficulty concentrating. At higher doses, you may experience tingling in the fingers and toes.
Qsymia Weight Loss Medication
Qsymia
Qsymia (phentermine/topiramate) has been an FDA-approved appetite suppressant for longer-term weight loss since 2012 and can be used along with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity.
Qsymia is appropriate for adults with an initial BMI of 30 kg/m² or greater (obese) or 27 kg/m² or greater (overweight) who also have at least one weight-related medical condition, such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, fatty liver disease, or high cholesterol.
Side effects: Potential side effects include elevated heart rate, nausea, heartburn, rash, constipation, visual changes (avoid if at increased risk for glaucoma), and tingling in the extremities.
Feeling Happy With Your Success
Wellbutrin (Bupropion)
Wellbutrin (bupropion) is an anti-depressant. As a norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitor, it can increase your metabolism and ability to focus while also improving your mood. A 2012 study found that obese adults who took bupropion SR in 300mg or 400mg doses lost 7.2% and 10% of their body weight, respectively, over 24 weeks — and maintained that weight loss at 48 weeks.
Bupropion can also be used for smoking cessation, major depressive disorder, and seasonal affective disorder.
Side effects: Potential side effects include headache, dry mouth, trouble sleeping, nausea, dizziness, constipation, fast heartbeat, and sore throat. These will often improve over the first week or two.
Using a CGM to Help With Weight Loss
Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM)
A continuous glucose monitor, such as Freestyle Libre or DEXCOM, helps track food intake and can be a great tool to determine how your body responds to various foods. This allows you to avoid things that tend to spike your sugar and insulin levels, thereby helping you control your eating habits better.
Be aware that insurance does not often cover these devices. The cost can range from $75–$150 for 2 sensors, depending on the pharmacy and manufacturer coupons.
Ready to Start Your Weight Loss Journey?
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Chandler — telehealth and in-office visits available.