By Meg Fruth, APRN-CNP and Lauren Lund, RN
The weight loss industry is growing with the rise of new classes of medications that are more effective and safer than ever before. This, combined with the obesity epidemic in America, has caused a boom in the weight management industry that has never before been seen. Unfortunately, this is also causing confusion for many patients...as there is also a lot of mis-information out there as well as clinics that are operating as illegal dispensaries for medications that may or may not be safe for all patients. Patient safety is and always has been our number one priority at MOBO Med Spa. We hope the following information helps guide you in your journey, and welcome the opportunity to discuss your unique needs during a 1:1 consultation.
It's certainly true that in the pursuit for weight loss, many individuals face challenges. For some, traditional methods such as diet and exercise may not yield desired results or be sustainable long-term. This can be due to hormones, insulin resistance, the American diet, and more. Medication options such as GLP-1s have gained recent recognition for their effects on weight loss and glycemic control.
MOBO Med Spa is proud to offer Medical Weight Loss which includes some of these medications for individuals who qualify. We believe that a responsible weight management program should never be tied to one specific medication, and we will always work with our patients to find the right treatment pathway given their unique needs, insurance coverage options, health status and goals. MOBO Med Spa strives to provide a safe and supportive environment where individuals can embark on their weight loss journey towards a healthier, happier, and more confident self. The following are some frequently asked questions regarding weight loss medications. Let's dive in...
Q: What are the current weight loss medications?
A: There are several FDA-approved weight loss medications and several that are pending FDA approval. Older medications such as phentermine, which is a stimulant, are now frequently dropped in favor of injectable weekly medications that are safer long term and offer a more sustainable option for weight management. The newest class of medications for weight loss is GLP-1s, short for glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists. GLP-1s are injectable medications that when combined with diet and exercise can help patients lose on average 15% of their body weight. We also utilize combination GLP-1 / GIP medication which has been shown in studies to result in average 20% body weight reduction.
Q: How do the medications work?
A: GLP-1 Agonists are a class of medications that were originally designed as an anti-diabetic medication. After studies revealed a host of other benefits for patients including weight loss, several have now gained FDA approval for weight management in non-diabetics when combined with diet and exercise. Some medications that we utilize combine a GLP-1 with glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) for dual action.
GLP-1 is a hormone naturally produced in the intestines that stimulates insulin secretion and reduces appetite. GLP-1 medications mimic this hormone's effects, helping individuals achieve sustainable weight loss and better glycemic control. GLP-1s work by balancing the hormones in the body that make you feel full or hungry. They help normalize insulin and glucose balance, and reduce the amount of glucose that's being produced by your liver when it's not needed. GLP-1s also reduce the rate at which the stomach digests food and empties, reducing appetite and make you feel fuller longer.
Q: What are the benefits of GLP-1 medications?
A: Benefits of GLP-1s and GLP-1/GIP medications include:
- Promotes Weight Loss
- Increased Metabolism
- Regulates Glucose
- Increases Insulin Production
- Slows Gastric Emptying
- Decreases Hunger
- Decreases Cravings
- Decreases Inflammation
- Cardiac Benefits (American Academy of Cardiology, 2023).
Q: How do I know if I'm a candidate for medical weight loss?
A: We screen patients first based on BMI (BMI over 30 OR a BMI over 27 with co-morbid conditions). We then will do a comprehensive history and physical to determine which medication options may be right for you, and to screen for contraindications. This may include labwork.
If you're curious about your Body Mass Index, BMI, it is a useful tool to estimate a healthy body weight based on your height. Learn your BMI and calculate how much weight you could lose on GLP-1 agonists!
- < 18.5 = Underweight
- 18.5 - 24.9 = Normal
- 25 - 29.9 = Overweight
- > 30 = Obese
Q: How much weight can I expect to lose?
A: During your consult, your provider will have a conversation about your weight loss goals including a healthy timeline to reach those goals. After a study of 2,000 obese adults, 50% of the participants using a GLP-1 agonist lost 15% of their body weight, and nearly a third lost 20% (American College of Cardiology, 2023). In participants with overweight or obesity, GLP-1 agonist medication plus lifestyle intervention was associated with sustained, clinically relevant reduction in body weight.
Q: Is exercise recommended while taking GLP-1s for weight loss?
A: Yes - Benefits of exercise include better sleep, mental health, sex drive, and weight loss. Exercise improves insulin sensitivity, by increasing the amount of glucose your muscles use. Exercise may further improve glycemic/glucose control when combined with GLP-1s. It is recommended to have a minimum of 2-3 days of mild to moderate strength training per week and walk 20 mins/day. This also helps prevent loss of muscle mass.
Q: Should I follow a diet or nutritional plan while on medical weight loss?
A: Patients trying to lose weight with help from medication should work with their healthcare professional for a guided meal plan, but in general, they should aim to eat 1,200 to 1,800 calories a day depending on their initial weight. Patient should eat a lot of different vegetables and healthy proteins as the foundation of your diet. Vegetables and fruits, which are full of vitamins, minerals and fiber, are essential for a healthy weight-loss program. We also recommend one to two daily servings of healthy fats such as avocados, nuts and seeds. Patients should drink 60-80oz of water each day. It is recommended to avoid alcohol. Eliminate or reduce processed foods and added sugars.
Q: I've read that there are gastrointestinal side effects. Should I be concerned?
A: During your consult, your provider will determine if GLP-1 or GLP-1/GIP medications are right for you. Gastrointestinal Adverse effects (such as nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting) are usually mild to moderate and tend to get better if you continue treatment. Many people find that eating smaller, low-fat meals more often help avoid GI side effects. Contact your healthcare provider if you experience side effects that you are unable to cope with. Your provider may recommend increasing the dose more slowly or prescribing a small antiemetic tablet to reduce nausea and vomiting. See your doctor if you develop abdominal pain as this may be caused by something other than GLP-1s, or represent a rare, more serious side effect. GLP-1 agonist weight loss medication delays gastric emptying so acid reflux can worsen. Avoid eating 2 hours before bedtime. Finally, one of the most common side effects is constipation. Make sure you're consuming plenty of fiber. If you're still experiencing constipation, your provider may recommend over-the-counter stool softener like Colace.
Q: How can I get prescribed GLP-1 weight loss medication?
A: People interested in medical weight loss should schedule a MOBO Med Spa Medical Weight Loss visit. There are options for both in-person and telehealth visits. During your visit, a MOBO provider will assess your weight loss and wellness goals. Next, your MOBO provider will view lab work or place an order for lab work. If you are a candidate, MOBO providers will prescribe weight loss medication and enroll you into MOBO's Medical Weight Loss Program.
Meet MOBO's Medical Weight Loss Program
Our comprehensive program takes a personalized approach to help you achieve your health goals, which may include safe and effective prescription options such as GLP-1s. MOBO's Medical Weight Loss Program uses a holistic approach to safe and effective medical weight loss in Ohio. The benefits of this program include boosted Self-confidence, development of healthy habits with help from experts on nutrition and exercise, reduced risk of chronic conditions associated with increased BMI, and improve cardiovascular health.
This program includes:
- Access to Weight Loss Medication
- Insurance coverage support
- Discounts on Supplements & Lipotropic B12
- Dietary & Meal Prep Ideas
- Ongoing provider care
- MOBO's WellWorld Health Tracking App
Initial Visit…
At your initial visit, we will assess your weight loss and wellness goals. Next, we will view any recent lab work or place an order for lab work if you haven't had recent labs. MOBO Med Spa will accept labs from an outside facility pending they are within 3-6 months. We also have the option to obtain labs which can be billed directly or ran through your insurance carrier. If you are a candidate, MOBO providers will prescribe weight loss medication and then work with your insurance carrier for coverage. If it is not covered by your insurance, we will work on finding a pharmacy where it's affordable for you. Most patients pay less than $100/month for the medication.
Initial Onboarding Visit: $199
Monthly Follow-Ups…
Monthly follow up appointments are required and are available in-person or via telehealth appointments. During your monthly follow up, your MOBO provider will check on progress, manage side effects, provide nutritional and exercise advice, and refill your prescription.
Monthly Subscription Starts at $125
*Terms and Conditions Apply. The cost of the medication is separate from the medical services provided by MOBO providers in the weight management program. Our team works hard to facilitate the paperwork necessary to obtain coverage for your medications through your prescription insurance provider. This often includes prior authorizations and appeals. Some patients pay less than $25 per month! In the event there is no coverage or no drug availability, MOBO does work with some mail order pharmacies that offer cost effective GLP1 medications, usually for less than $100/month. The provider visits through MOBO's Weight Management Program are not billed to insurance however you can ask for a super bill. This super bill can self-submitted to your insurance carrier and/or you can use FSA/HSA to pay for your regular visit with MOBO providers.
To book with Meg Fruth, CNP with our Central Ohio practice: click here.
If you're outside this area, MOBO Med Spa offers in person and tele-health appointments for weight management at most locations. Need help finding a location near you?
References
American College of cardiology (2023). SELECT: Semaglutide reduces risk of MACE in adults with overweight or obesity. https://www.acc.org/Latest-in-Cardiology/Articles/2023/08/10/14/29/SELECT-Semaglutide-Reduces-Risk-of-MACE-in-Adults-With-Overweight-or-Obesity
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