When 'Eat Less, Move More' Isn't Enough: The New Science of Obesity Medications

Let me take you back to my medical school days in the late 1990s. When it came to treating obesity, our options were painfully limited: tell patients to eat less and move more, prescribe a stimulant, or refer them for bariatric surgery. That was it. There was little in between. Fast forward to today, and the conversation has completely changed. At PrecisionMD, we’re leading a new era in obesity treatment, using science-backed medications that work with your body instead of against it.

Why Weight Loss Is More Than Willpower

Let’s get something straight—obesity is not just a willpower problem. For years, people have been told to "just eat less," as if it were that simple. But anyone who has struggled with weight knows firsthand that it's not.

Your body is designed to resist weight loss. When you start losing weight, your brain reacts as if you're starving, ramping up hunger signals and slowing metabolism to make sure you regain what you lost. This is why so many people who try to lose weight end up frustrated and regaining everything (and sometimes more). It’s not a failure of discipline—it’s biology.

The good news? PrecisionMD has solutions that help counteract these biological forces, making sustainable weight loss possible.

Your Medication Options

If you were sitting in our office today, here’s how we would walk you through your options. It’s not just about knowing what’s out there—it’s about figuring out what’s right for you.

GLP-1 Receptor Agonists: The Game-Changers

These medications mimic natural hormones that regulate appetite and blood sugar levels. In addition to weight loss, they are also used to treat type 2 diabetes. One of the biggest benefits my patients report with GLP-1s is a dramatic reduction in "food noise"—that constant mental chatter about what to eat, when to eat, and how much to eat. Many describe it as freeing, allowing them to focus on life instead of food.

Semaglutide (Wegovy, Ozempic)

• Works by mimicking the hormone GLP-1, which signals satiety and slows digestion.

• Average weight loss: 15-17% over 68 weeks.

• Often results in patients feeling full faster and thinking about food less.

• Also FDA-approved for diabetes under the name Ozempic.

• Common side effects: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea.

• Cost: ~$1,300/month without insurance, but we help navigate insurance coverage and affordable options at PrecisionMD.

Tirzepatide (Zepbound, Mounjaro)

• Targets both GLP-1 and GIP hormones, leading to greater metabolic benefits.

• Average weight loss: 20-22%, with some patients losing more.

• Also used for diabetes under the name Mounjaro.

• Often results in patients feeling full faster and thinking about food less.

• Common side effects: nausea, diarrhea, vomiting.

• Cost: ~$1,000-$1,300/month without insurance, but we help navigate insurance coverage and affordable options at PrecisionMD.

Liraglutide (Saxenda, Victoza)

• Works similarly to semaglutide but requires daily injections.

• Average weight loss: 5-10%.

• FDA-approved for diabetes under the name Victoza.

• Common side effects: nausea, diarrhea.

• Good alternative if other GLP-1s are not an option.

Sympathomimetic Appetite Suppressants: Fast-Acting Options

Phentermine (Adipex-P, Lomaira)

• Stimulates the "fight or flight" response to suppress appetite.

• Quick-acting, with results noticeable in days.

• Average weight loss: 5-8% over 12 weeks.

• Common side effects: dry mouth, insomnia, energy boost.

• Not recommended for those with uncontrolled high blood pressure or anxiety.

• Cost: ~$15-30/month, making it one of the most affordable options.

Diethylpropion (Tenuate, Tenuate Dospan)

• Works similarly to phentermine but with milder stimulant effects.

• Average weight loss: 3-6% over 12 weeks.

• Fewer stimulant-related side effects, making it a better fit for sensitive patients.

• Short-term use only, with costs around $10-30/month.

Combination Medications: Tackling Multiple Pathways

Phentermine-Topiramate (Qsymia)

• Combines phentermine’s appetite suppression with topiramate, a medication that affects cravings and metabolism.

• Average weight loss: 7-9% over a year, but some patients achieve up to 25%.

• Common side effects: tingling in hands/feet, dry mouth, taste changes.

• Important: Cannot be used during pregnancy.

Naltrexone-Bupropion (Contrave)

• Targets brain pathways related to cravings and emotional eating.

• Particularly effective for patients struggling with binge eating or food addiction.

• Average weight loss: 4-7% over a year.

• Common side effects: nausea, headaches, constipation.

Addressing Common Questions

Are these medications safe long-term?

Yes, they have been extensively studied. However, long-term use should be monitored by a healthcare provider. At PrecisionMD, we ensure ongoing follow-up to maximize safety and effectiveness.

Can I take more than one medication at the same time?

Absolutely. Many patients benefit from combining medications that target different pathways. This is something we evaluate on a case-by-case basis.

Will I have to change my diet and exercise for these to work?

Medications make weight loss easier, but sustainable changes still require healthy habits. At PrecisionMD, we guide you in making lifestyle changes that work with your treatment.

How does PrecisionMD support me beyond just prescribing medication?

We offer full-spectrum care, including lab monitoring, metabolic health assessments, and personalized follow-up plans to keep you on track.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Obesity medicine is evolving rapidly, and PrecisionMD is at the forefront. We stay ahead of the latest treatments so you can achieve the best results possible.

Which Best Describes You?

• Frustrated with yo-yo dieting and feel like your body is fighting you? Let’s talk.

• Tried weight loss medications before but didn’t see results? There may be better options for you.

• Wondering whether insurance will cover these treatments? We can help navigate that process.

Struggling with weight is not a personal failure. Our bodies evolved for food scarcity, not food abundance. These medications help correct that biological mismatch, making it possible to lose weight and keep it off.

If you’re wondering whether any of these options might be right for you, let’s talk. At PrecisionMD, we’re here to help you find a solution that fits your life, your goals, and your health. Schedule an appointment today, and let’s get started.