Prescription Weight-Loss Medicines

Each product has its own age eligibility, dosing, contraindications, and response review. A detailed comparison should address those points for the treatments being considered. New approvals can change the available options. The semaglutide and tirzepatide guides explain their formulations in detail.

For adults, medication is commonly considered at BMI 30 or above, or BMI 27 or above with a weight-related condition. The clinician should also assess weight history, previous treatment, current health, and medicines that may contribute to weight change. An appropriate prescription has a clear purpose and a plan to assess benefit.

Some products have additional approved uses. Wegovy has specified cardiovascular indications and its injection has a specified MASH indication. Zepbound can treat moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea in adults with obesity. These uses require the full diagnostic and eligibility criteria and care for the underlying condition.

Wegovy, Zepbound, and Foundayo are contraindicated with personal or family medullary thyroid carcinoma or MEN2. Severe gastroparesis, pancreatitis, gallbladder disease, diabetic eye disease, and other medicines need review. Digestive effects can cause dehydration, and insulin or sulfonylureas can increase hypoglycemia risk.

Qsymia is contraindicated during pregnancy and can cause fetal harm. Pregnancy testing is recommended before treatment and monthly for people who can become pregnant, with effective contraception. Glaucoma, hyperthyroidism, mood symptoms, and certain drug interactions are also relevant.

Contrave is contraindicated with uncontrolled hypertension, seizure disorders, certain eating disorders, other bupropion products, chronic opioid use, and specified drug interactions. It has a boxed warning concerning suicidal thoughts and behaviors. The 2026 removal of a mood warning from affected GLP-1 labels does not remove warnings from other weight medicines.

• Agree on the outcome being assessed and when response will be reviewed.
• Discuss side effects, the dose schedule, and when to contact the team.
• Plan nutrition and activity appropriate to your health and ability.
• Verify the continuing prescription price, insurance authorization, and separate care fees.
• Discuss pregnancy plans, interruptions, and alternatives if treatment is unsuitable.

Weight medicines are often used long term, with continued review of benefit and safety. Stopping rules and dose changes are product-specific. If a medicine needs to stop, ask for a plan for the treated condition and support during the transition.

Avoid combining weight medicines or adding an unapproved research product without prescribing advice. Compounded GLP-1 preparations are not FDA-approved, and FDA warns about dosing and quality concerns. Verify the pharmacy and exact product whenever treatment is arranged online.