Home

Defining Weight Problems

Weight Management Programs

Clinical Studies

Newsletter

Our Staff

Contact Us

Weight Management Medications

There are several different types of medications, both prescription and non-prescription, that can help individuals lose weight. Some work by decreasing appetite, others by promoting the feeling of fullness or by decreasing calorie absorption. It is important to remember that not all medications work for everyone. If one does not work for you, there are others that can be used or combined to get the best results.

Because obesity is a medical disease, it is essential that it be treated by a qualified physician. All new patients are given an extensive questionnaire concerning their medical and nutritional history.

In addition, the following procedures will be performed:

• Physical examination
• EKG
• Body composition analysis
• Complete blood work

This information will help our physician determine which treatment regimen is optimal. No medical condition excludes anyone from joining our program and receiving treatment. Because our patients typically lose a significant amount of weight quickly, we require regular medical monitoring to reduce health risks and to adjust treatment programs as necessary.

The majority of FDA-approved prescription medications and non-prescription medications target neurotransmitters, chemical messengers in the brain, that cause cravings, over-eating and binging. Laziness and lack of willpower do not cause obesity, but the an imbalance imbalance of neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine and norepenepherine can cause over-eating and lead to obesity. The medications used at our center do not contain ephedra or amphetamines. Many medications that are available today can help bring these neurotransmitters into balance to control over-eating and correct obesity. We work with each of our patients to determine which medications, if any, are appropriate.