TOP WEIGHT LOSS MEDICATIONS: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW 

Losing weight is rarely just about willpower. For many people, lifestyle changes alone—diet, exercise, behavior—are not enough to overcome hunger, metabolism, or hormonal issues. That’s where modern weight loss medications come in. When used under medical supervision, they can be powerful tools to help patients meet their goals more safely and effectively. 

This blog walks you through some of the leading prescription meds, how they work, pros and cons, and how to choose what might be right for you. 

Why Consider Weight Loss Medications? 

Before diving into specifics, it’s helpful to understand when medications may be indicated: 

• Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 or more, or 27+ with weight related health issues (e.g. type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure).  
• After attempts at diet, physical activity, and behavior changes without sufficient results. 
• If weight is affecting physical health, quality of life, or exacerbating other medical conditions. 

Medications are not magic pills, but they can help reduce appetite, slow gastric emptying, or modulate hormones that regulate hunger + fullness. Always part of a comprehensive plan.  

Top FDA-Approved Weight Loss Medications 

Here are some of the most commonly used prescription drugs for weight management, along with their essential features. 

* “Average weight loss” numbers are from clinical trials in appropriate patients; individual results vary widely depending on adherence, dose, duration, lifestyle, etc. 

How These Medications Compare 

• Potency: Tirzepatide > Semaglutide (high dose) > Phentermine-Topiramate > Liraglutide ≈ Naltrexone-Bupropion > Orlistat. 
• Ease of use: Oral tablets (Orlistat, Naltrexone-Bupropion, Qsymia) tend to be easier for many patients vs. injections. But injections may deliver larger weight loss.
• Side effect profile: GLP-1 class drugs tend to cause GI side effects, especially early on; other medications have different risks (e.g. neurological, cardiovascular) depending on the medication.
• Cost & access: Some meds are newer / brand-name only, more expensive, may not be covered by insurance. Others have generics or lower‐cost alternatives. 

Who Is a Good Candidate? 

At Reem Hospital, our physicians consider: 

• BMI threshold and presence of comorbidities (e.g., diabetes, high cholesterol, sleep apnea). 
• Current medications / medical history (liver, kidney, psychiatric conditions). 
• Patient preferences: injections vs pills, side effects tolerance. 
• Long-term sustainability: medications are aids, not standalone solutions. Lifestyle, diet, and behavior adjustments remain essential. 

Risks & Practical Considerations 

• Stopping medication usually leads to some regain of weight unless lifestyle changes are maintained. 
• Monitoring is important—for side effects (e.g. GI upset, potential effects on mood, heart rate). 
• Pregnancy is generally a contraindication for many weight loss medications. 
• Cost, availability, and patient support (dietitians, counselling, follow-up) make a big difference in real effectiveness. 

Botox Injection in the Stomach for Weight Loss 

In addition to FDA-approved weight loss medications, some patients may hear about or be offered Botox (botulinum toxin) injections into the stomach as a method to support weight management. 

How It Works 

• Botox is injected into specific parts of the stomach wall during an endoscopic procedure. 
• It temporarily paralyzes the stomach muscles, slowing down gastric emptying. 
• This makes patients feel full longer, reducing appetite and calorie intake. 

What the Evidence Shows 

• Some studies suggest that Botox injections can lead to modest short-term weight loss, especially in patients who are not candidates for surgery. 
• However, the effect usually lasts 3–6 months, as the Botox wears off. 
• Results are variable: some people lose noticeable weight, while others see limited benefits. 

Pros 

• Non-surgical, minimally invasive. 
• Done as an outpatient procedure. 
• May help patients who want a temporary, reversible option. 

Cons 

• Not currently FDA-approved for weight loss. 
• Weight loss tends to be less dramatic compared with GLP-1 medications or bariatric surgery. 
• Potential side effects include nausea, bloating, or discomfort after the procedure.
• Expensive and not always covered by insurance. 

Who Might Consider It? 

• Patients who do not qualify for bariatric surgery. 
• Those seeking a short-term aid for appetite control. 
• Patients who want to try a non-drug, non-surgical intervention, knowing the limitations. 

Conclusion

Weight loss medications have become a transformative option for many individuals struggling with obesity or being overweight, especially when lifestyle changes alone aren’t enough. The most powerful medications (like GLP-1 receptor agonists such as tirzepatide and semaglutide) offer large weight losses, while others provide incremental help with fewer side effects or simpler administration. 

At Reem Hospital, our approach is personalized: matching the right medication to each patient’s health profile, preference, and lifestyle. If you think you may benefit from a prescription aid in weight loss, reach out to our endocrinology clinic. We’ll help you understand the options and start a plan that’s safe, realistic, and sustainable. 

Reference: FDA