hands-holding-small-plastic-heart Controlling your weight is something that can be incredibly challenging, stressful, and frustrating. For some, weight management is primarily a cosmetic concern. However, achieving and maintaining a healthy body weight is a vital component of long-term wellness and preventing many chronic health concerns including heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, joint pain, and more. We offer our patients a variety of professional weight management services, including the use of popular injectable weight loss medications. So today, our healthcare providers wanted to answer some commonly asked questions about these weight loss medications in order to better inform patients who may benefit from using them.

Question #1: Is it ok to purchase injectable weight loss medications online?

We strongly recommend against doing this. In fact, over the last year we have seen the rise of counterfeit versions of in-demand weight loss medications, especially online. While some patients see the opportunity to save a few bucks on their treatment, these knock offs cannot offer the same caliber of results, and more importantly, their safety cannot be verified. Last month, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) officially prohibited the sale of compounded versions of these GLP-1 medications. It is important not to use any injectable weight loss medications unless they have been prescribed by a trusted medical provider and obtained through a legitimate pharmacy.

Question #2: Are there any serious side effects associated with injectable weight loss medications?

Like any medication, these weight loss medications come with the potential for some side effects. However, these effects are typically minor and will fade over time as the body adjusts to the medicine. Most commonly, these side effects can include:

  • Nausea
  • Diarrhea or constipation
  • Fatigue or dizziness
  • Low blood sugar (though this is very rare)

Question #3: Are there other health benefits besides weight loss that these medications offer?

There can be in some cases. These medications were used primarily in the past to help control blood sugar levels for people with type 2 diabetes. In some cases, certain injectable weight loss meds can help people lower their risk of serious health conditions like kidney disease, heart disease, and stroke. Lowered blood pressure is another common benefit, though this may be tied to weight loss as the use of the medication itself. Some people who experience sleep apnea can also benefit from trying these medications.

Question #4: Do I need to keep exercising once I start taking my weight loss medication?

Absolutely. Continued physical activity is always recommended, and is an essential part of both maintaining long-term wellness and also getting the most out of your weight loss efforts. Additionally, there can be a connection for some people between loss of fat and loss of muscle mass. Which is why it is especially important to continue exercising in order to maintain your strength, stamina, and resting metabolic rate as you continue to lose weight.

Our practice believes strongly in whole body wellness, and weight management is a significant part of helping to achieve this for our patients. For more information on our weight management services, contact Family Practice Center to schedule an appointment at one of our nine metro Atlanta area locations. And stay up to date on our blog posts for more health and wellness tips, and news.