We have all seen the rave over the GLP-1 medications for weight loss on social media (i.e. Wegovy, Zepbound, Saxenda). People are able to achieve their weight loss goals with the assistance of these medications. But… Did you know that not everyone qualifies for a GLP-1?
In order to qualify for a GLP-1 medication, you have to have a BMI greater than 27 and have a comorbidity (such as high cholesterol or high blood pressure) OR have a BMI greater than 30 and no comorbidity. Even if you do qualify, insurance policies don’t always cover the medication or the cost is too expensive.
So what other options do you have?
Thankfully, there are other medications that help aid in weight loss. Keep reading to learn about 3 great options you may want to try.
1. Contrave
Contrave is a combination medication made up of bupropion and naltrexone. Bupropion is technically an antidepressant. Naltrexone is a medication used for addiction to alcohol or opioids. Together, the medications work together to curve appetite and cravings. It helps stop the pleasure you get from eating food, so you get to say goodbye to food noise.
Contrave is taken in steps. You will eventually work your way up to taking 2 pills twice a day- once in the morning and once in the evening.
Nausea is a common side effect but should improve the longer it is taken.
Cost depends on your insurance coverage.
2. Metformin
Metformin can be used to help with weight loss as an off-label indication. It helps reduce glucose production and absorption. It also works by slowing the digestive process, reducing appetite, and keeping you fuller longer.
It is taken twice daily with a meal.
Some common side effects are nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting. However, these usually resolve after a few weeks of taking the medication.
Metformin is pretty widely available so the cost is usually very affordable ever without insurance.
3. Bupropion
As stated above, bupropion is an antidepressant. The mechanism of action, in regards to weight loss, isn’t exactly known. Researchers believe that it could be linked to treatment of underlying depression, which is linked to low dopamine levels. Low dopamine levels are thought to contribute to obesity. It can help curve the pleasure you get from eating foods and decrease appetite.
It is taken once a day.
Some side effects could be suicidal thoughts or ideations, heart palpitations, or insomnia.
It is widely available in the generic form and usually pretty affordable.
All of these medications, including GLP-1s, are meant to be used in conjunction with healthy lifestyle changes through improved diet and exercise. As much as we wish we just had a magic pill to melt the weight off while eating all the yummy foods, we have to put in the effort towards a healthier lifestyle.
Weight loss can be difficult but you don’t have to do it alone. Schedule an appointment today with one of our MyMenopauseRx clinicians. Together, we can come up with a plan for you to have a healthier lifestyle and achieve your goals.
