If you are an adult desiring a healthy weight, you might be wondering why diet and exercise have not given you the results you expect. If you have been creating lifestyle changes to acquire your ideal weight, you may have considered taking prescription weight-loss drugs. However, take note that losing weight with prescription drugs is done in addition to diet and exercise and NOT as a substitute for them.
Are you planning to explore this option? Don’t worry, Myerlee Pharmacy can help. This article will explore weight loss treatment with prescription drugs and how they can help.
If you need more information about weight loss treatment compounding in Cape Coral, FL, talk to a Myerlee pharmacist today. Give us a call at (239) 482-3022 or message us online.
Conditions for Weight Loss Treatment
After you have undergone diet and exercise and are still unsuccessful in losing some pounds, your physician will consider the following factors before prescribing weight-loss drugs:
- High BMI. According to the World Health Organization, "a body mass index(BMI) over 25 is considered overweight, and over 30 is obese." Weight-loss drugs can be prescribed if a person's BMI exceeds 30 or when the BMI is greater than 27 and the individual has complex medical problems in relation to obesity, including high blood pressure or diabetes.
- Health History. Doctors always check a person’s health history before giving prescription weight-loss drugs. This practice ensures that there will be no side effects after considering the medications that a person is already taking.
- Pregnancy. Pregnant women, women who desire to be pregnant, or mothers who breastfeed their babies MUST AVOID taking weight-loss drugs for the baby's protection. Always consult your healthcare provider before taking any medication while pregnant or breastfeeding.
Some things to consider: medication should always be discussed with your doctor. Constipation, nausea, and diarrhea are some of the mild side effects that can be experienced when taking weight-loss drugs. Moreover, insurance does not cover the cost of weight-loss drugs. It is best to check with your insurance company to be informed regarding the coverage of each medication.
Studies Regarding Weight-Loss Drugs
Studies show that the long-term use of prescription weight-loss drugs causes significant weight loss compared with placebo. Moreover, there are better results when weight-loss medication is taken in addition to a healthy lifestyle, compared with lifestyle changes alone.
According to Mayo Clinic, taking weight-loss drugs over a period of one year can mean you lose three to 12 percent more body weight than what is lost when making lifestyle changes alone. Moreover, sustaining a loss of five to 10 percent of your body weight can help lower blood sugar, blood pressure, and triglyceride (fats in the blood) levels.
Period for Drug Therapy
- The length of time allowed for taking weight-loss drugs varies from person to person. It all depends on the body's reaction to these medications. Doctors often allow medication if an individual has significantly lost weight and does not experience side effects.
- Doctors will change the treatment plan or prescribe another weight-loss medication if the person does not lose at least five percent of their body weight after 12 weeks of treatment.
Weight-loss drugs can help you achieve your dream weight. After consulting with your doctor, they may prescribe a compounded weight-loss medication to suit your needs.
Myerlee Pharmacy offers sterile and non-sterile compounded medications for all your health needs and issues. Contact our office at (239) 482-3022 or send us a message online. We care about you and your health! We service Cape Coral, FL, and the surrounding areas.
