Medical Weight Loss Program Los Angeles

This analysis will help our weight loss doctor understand your risk factors. While providing insight about your life’s continuing weight loss issues. We then design a personalized weight loss plan. A plan that safely removes any barriers to help you sustain long-term weight loss. Since our weight loss clinic is also an internal medicine office, our healthcare providers can help treat type 2 diabetes, thyroid issues, sleep apnea and more. All these medical conditions can decrease metabolism and make it more difficult for you to lose weight.

Who Qualifies for Medical Weight Loss?

Prescription weight loss medications and weight loss injections such as Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro and Zepbound have become more popular in recent years. They are typically only prescribed to individuals who meet certain criteria but are safe in general when taken under the care of a weight loss doctor. These criteria can vary depending on the medication and the healthcare provider, but generally, prescription weight loss medications are prescribed to individuals who:

Weight Loss Medication

Weight loss medications are a type of treatment option that can be prescribed to help individuals lose weight. These medications work by suppressing appetite, increasing metabolism, or inhibiting the absorption of fat or carbohydrates. Diabetes weight loss medications have gained popularity in recent years as they are effective in losing weight. We will discuss the different prescription weight loss medications and which one may be best for you.

There are several different types of weight loss medications available, each with their own mechanism of action and potential side effects.

Best Weight Loss Medications

• Orlistat ( Xenical & Alli)

Orlistat, available in capsule form, acts as a lipase inhibitor, functioning by obstructing the enzyme responsible for breaking down dietary fats. This mechanism prevents the absorption of fats consumed through food, leading to the excretion of undigested fat from the body. It is recommended for use alongside a reduced-calorie diet and is also prescribed to minimize the risk of weight regain.

Patients typically experience a reduction of approximately 5% in body weight. The recommended dosage consists of one 120 mg capsule taken three times daily, with each main meal containing fat, either during or up to 1 hour after the meal.

For over-the-counter use, a 60 mg capsule formulation is available to be taken with each meal containing fat. Common adverse effects of orlistat include oily discharge from the rectum, flatus with discharge, increased bowel movements, and fecal incontinence.

Best Weight Loss Injections

• Semaglutide ( Ozempic & Wegovy)

Semaglutide, marketed under the brand names Wegovy and Ozempic, is a GLP-1 receptor agonist approved by the FDA in 2021. Wegovy is specifically indicated for adults and adolescents aged 12 years and older with obesity (BMI ≥30 for adults, BMI ≥ 95th percentile for age and sex for adolescents) or adults with excess weight (BMI ≥27) who also have weight-related medical conditions. Administered via injection, the dosage of Wegovy needs to be gradually increased over 16 to 20 weeks to reach the 2.4 mg dosage, helping to mitigate potential side effects such as gastrointestinal symptoms, headache, dizziness, and fatigue.

Ozempic, a formulation of semaglutide, serves the same purpose but is FDA-approved for the treatment of type 2 diabetes.

• Trizepatide ( Mounjaro & Zepbound)

Previously known as Mounjaro for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, tirzepatide has gained approval under the name Zepbound for addressing obesity in adults with a BMI of 30 or higher. Serving as both a GLP-1 and a GIP receptor agonist, similar to semaglutide, it functions by curbing appetite and is designed to complement dietary and exercise efforts in weight loss. Like semaglutide, it is administered via injection.

• Liraglutdie ( Saxenda )

• Phentramine ( Suprenza & Adipex)

Phentermine stands as the oldest and most commonly prescribed weight loss medication. Initially intended for short-term use to kickstart weight loss efforts, recent medical guidelines have incorporated it into long-term treatment plans. Some individuals may experience a weight loss of approximately 5% of their body weight with phentermine.

In the United States, phentermine is predominantly available in its HCl formulation, offered in strengths of 15 mg and 30 mg. Common side effects include headaches, heightened stimulation, elevated blood pressure, insomnia, irregular or rapid heart rate, and tremors.

Potential interactions may arise during or within 14 days after using monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors, sympathomimetics, alcohol, adrenergic neuron-blocking medications, and conceivably certain anesthetic agents.

• Phentramine-topiramate ( Qsymia)

Topiramate, when combined with phentermine, works to reduce appetite and cravings, with the dual medication approach enhancing effectiveness. This combination is particularly beneficial for adults dealing with both migraines and obesity, making them suitable candidates for this weight-loss treatment. Patients may typically experience an average weight loss ranging from 5% to 10% of their body weight.

In cases where the desired weight loss of over 5% is not attained within 12 weeks of reaching the maximum dosage, discontinuation of the weight loss regimen should be gradually implemented.

The daily dosage options offer four strengths, starting from 3.75 mg/23 mg to 15 mg/92 mg. Common side effects encompass abnormal sensations, dizziness, changes in taste perception, insomnia, constipation, and dry mouth. Contraindications include uncontrolled hypertension, coronary artery disease, hyperthyroidism, glaucoma, and sensitivity to stimulants.

• Naltrexone-bupropion ( Contrave)

Naltrexone-bupropion merges an opioid receptor antagonist with an antidepressant to target the pleasure-reward centers of the brain, effectively reducing cravings and appetite. Certain individuals may experience a weight loss ranging from 5% to 10% of their body weight.

Initial treatment typically involves starting with one 8/90 mg tablet daily, gradually increasing to a maximum of four tablets per day. Among the most prevalent side effects are nausea, constipation, headaches, vomiting, dizziness, insomnia, dry mouth, and diarrhea. It is crucial to avoid prescribing this medication to patients with a seizure disorder or those using opioids for chronic pain.

• Setmelanotide ( Imcivree)

Setmelanotide, a melanocortin-4 receptor agonist, is approved for the long-term management of weight in both adult and pediatric patients aged 6 years and above who suffer from obesity linked to certain rare genetic disorders.

Diagnosis of this condition requires genetic testing confirming variants in POMC, PCSK1, or LEPR genes, which are interpreted as pathogenic, likely pathogenic, or of uncertain significance (VUS).

• Hydrogel (Plenity)

Plenity, an FDA-cleared medical device introduced in 2019, is tailored for individuals with a BMI ranging from 24 to 40, distinguishing it from traditional medications. Its profile in the media has surged alongside the popularity of GLP-1 receptor agonists.

Functioning as a capsule, Plenity dispenses a biodegradable, super-absorbent hydrogel directly into the stomach. This gel aids in enhancing satiety, thereby facilitating reduced food consumption. Real-world studies have shown an average weight loss of 9% with this approach.

Injections For Weight Loss

Our office provides a variety of injections to suppress hunger and increase metabolism and to trigger the body’s use of fat for fuel.  These injections in combination with restriction diets help lose stubborn and unwanted fat deposits and stores. Diets consist of nutritious organic, unprocessed foods and meal replacements. Our office also provides sublingual medication drops to be placed under the tongue for weight loss. Patients typically follow the plan for 30 days to 45 days straight. Patients can see significant weight loss results with our medically monitored weight loss program.

The majority of men and women can use the variety of injections available for weight loss. Our concierge physicians will provide individualized recommendations for specific use with custom protocols tailored for you.  Weight loss injections are not prescribed for women who are pregnant or actively nursing.

Weight Loss Medications Online

We offer a variety of weight loss medications, some that we carry in the office and some that is called in to your local pharmacy. Due to shortages of GLP-1 medications such as Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro, we have partnered with a reputable pharmacy to obtain the best compounded Ozempic, compounded Wegovy and compounded Mounjaro for a fraction of the cost of brand name medication. These injections can be shipped to your home after a consultation with one of our providers. We are also able to provide consultations online and call in the brand name medications to your local pharmacy if you prefer. Some insurances due cover the cost of these medications if you have a diagnosis of diabetes. Our office can strive to get coverage for the cost of these medications in such cases.

Trizepatide vs Semaglutide

Our medical weight loss program has extensive experience with the use of these medications and can guide you in regards to which one would best suit you. Trizepatide class of medications and Semaglutide class of medications both work to suppress hunger and appetite. Semaglutide is a glucagon-like-peptide-1 (GLP-1) Receptor agonist which acts like GLP-1 hormone in suppressing your appetite. Trizepatides act like GLP-1 hormone but also have a GIP ( glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide component to them. Trizepatides have been shown to have more of a weight loss effect associated with them.

GLP-1 Injections for Weight Loss

Liraglutide

This medication is a type of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist that increases feelings of fullness and reduces appetite. It is also usually prescribed to individuals who have a BMI of 30 or higher, or a BMI of 27 or higher with a weight-related health condition such as high blood pressure or diabetes.

Like any medication, Liraglutide can cause side effects. The most common side effects associated with this GLP-1 agonist include:

Ozempic (semaglutide) also belongs to a class of drugs called GLP-1 receptor agonists. It is used in diabetes type two for better blood sugar control. It has gained popularity in recent months and more people are using it for weight loss with success.Ozempic is typically taken once a week, by injection under the skin, and it’s often used in combination with other diabetes medications such as metformin. It works by mimicking the action of a hormone called GLP-1, which is produced naturally in the body and helps to regulate the release of insulin. When GLP-1 levels are high, insulin is released in response to rising blood sugar levels after a meal, and the liver produces less glucose. This helps to lower blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of long-term complications of diabetes.

Ozempic pen side effect profile is similar to Saxenda.

Wegovy (semaglutide) is also a prescription medication that belongs to a class of drugs called GLP-1 receptor agonists. Wegovy also helps to suppress appetite and like ozepmic gives an increase feelings of fullness and reduce calorie intake. Wegovy is also typically taken once a week by injection under the skin.

Wegovy side effect profile is similar to Saxenda and ozempic.

Mounjaro (Tirzepatide) is a unique medication that acts on two types of receptors, the glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) and the glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptors. It is the first dual agonist for these receptors, meaning it has the ability to stimulate both types of receptors.

Other GLP-1 agonists that are prescribed as injections for weight loss include:

Best Diabetes Medications For Weight Loss

Many patients often ask us what is the best diabetes medication for weight loss for them? There is no easy answer to this as each patient has a different medical history and may be on different medications already for diabetes or weight loss. In general the class of medications called tirzepatides have shown to be more effective in weight loss. A study published in 2023 showed that using tirzepatide resulted in a weight loss of 17.8% (95% CI: 16.3%-19.3%) compared with 12.4% (95% CI: 11.5%-13.4%) for semaglutide. Our office can evaluate you and your goals and recommend which medication is best for you.

How it works

Contact us at 310-299-8959 to schedule an in office consult or virtual consult

or Book Online to receive your prescription of Wegovy or other Semaglutide or Tirzepatide for weight loss.

Receive Semaglutide Injections for weight loss

Receive Tirzepatide Injections for weight loss

Phentermine is a prescription medication that is used as an appetite suppressant to aid in weight loss. It is classified as a sympathomimetic amine, which means that it works by stimulating the sympathetic nervous system, which in turn increases the release of certain neurotransmitters such as norepinephrine, dopamine, and serotonin that can suppress appetite.Phentermine is typically prescribed to individuals who are considered to be overweight or obese, and who have been unable to lose weight through diet and exercise alone. It is usually used in combination with a reduced-calorie diet and regular exercise to promote weight loss.Phentermine is available in both tablet and extended-release capsule form and is usually taken once a day before breakfast or 1-2 hours after breakfast. Due to its potential to increase heart rate in some individuals, we rerquire an EKG to assess baseline heart rhythm.

Side effects of phentramine include:

Injections to Boost Metabolism

There are a variety of different types of injections that are marketed as a way to boost metabolism and promote weight loss.

One example of an injection that is marketed as a way to boost metabolism is the Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG) injection. This hormone is naturally produced in the body during pregnancy and is thought to increase metabolism and promote weight loss when given as an injection.

Human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) is a hormone that is produced by the placenta during pregnancy and used as injections in comination with low calorie diet for weight loss. It is sometimes referred to as the “hCG diet.” This diet involves consuming a very low calorie diet (VLCD) of about 500-800 calories per day, and taking daily hCG injections.

We should note that the FDA has not approved hCG for weight loss.

Liotropic Injections contain a combination of amino acids and vitamins that are believed to enhance liver function and promote the metabolism of fat.

Lipotropic injections include:

Lipotropic injections are usually given intramuscularly and are intended to aid in weight loss, detoxify the liver, and improve overall health. However, It’s important to note that these injections are not FDA approved for weight loss.

Growth Hormone-releasing Peptides

Growth hormone-releasing peptides (GHRPs) are a class of peptides that are designed to stimulate the release of growth hormone (GH) in the body. Growth hormone is a hormone that plays a variety of roles in our bodies and help growth and development, metabolism, and tissue repair.

GHRPs are used for a variety of different purposes, including muscle building, fat loss, anti-aging, and injury recovery. They are often used by athletes and bodybuilders to enhance weight loss , increase muscle mass and performance.

GHRPs work by binding to specific receptors in the pituitary gland, and by this action stimulate the release of growth hormone. The two most common GHRPs are referred to as GHRP-6 and GHRP-2.

The use of GHRPs is not FDA-approved for any medical use.

Fat Burning Peptides

Fat burning peptides are a newer class of peptides that are designed to promote fat loss, increase metabolism and decrease appetite. These peptides can help in weight loss efforts, but it’s important to note that they are still undergoing studies

Fat-burning peptides include:

Our healthcare providers and can review your history and figure out what is the best medically supervised weight loss program and medications to use to help you through your weight loss journey.

Patients Sometimes Ask Me, How Can I Lose 20lbs in a Month?

I always tell them that losing 20lbs in a month is an ambitious goal that requires a significant amount of weight loss each week that is not healthy. In most cases, you did not put in on overnight and there is no reason for you to want to lose it overnight as well. In general a crash course weight loss is not healthy and not sustainable. It is not recommended to lose weight at such a fast rate, as it can be difficult to maintain and can have negative impacts on your health.

What is Considered a Safe Weekly Weight Loss Goal?

We can provide you the tools to lose the weight and then keep the weight off. Our medical weight loss clinic in conjunction with weight loss medications, nutritionist, improved metabolism, will get you to your desired weight. Your job will be to keep the weight off by keeping a sustainable lifestyle. Once you have lost the weight, you need to make sustainable lifestyle changes that include a balanced diet, regular exercise, and healthy habits. A healthy rate of weight loss is considered to be 1-2lbs per week.

Tips to Help You Lose Weight in a Healthy Way:

It’s important to remember that weight loss is not just about losing pounds, but also about improving overall health and well-being. Rapid weight loss can be difficult to sustain and may not provide lasting results.

Weight Loss Programs – Diets

Low Calorie and Very Low Calorie Diets:

Low-calorie diets (LCD), and very low-calorie diets (VLCD) are valuable weight loss programs. Further assisting patients in losing significant amounts of weight safely and efficiently. Under the concierge doctors’ supervision, patients can lose from 2-7 pounds weekly.  Low-calorie diets may consist of full or partial meal replacements. Examples of meal replacements include OPTIFAST, MEDIFAST or PROTI. Now you can lose fat while conserving your muscle mass and staving off cravings.

Reduced Calorie Diet:

A Reduced Calorie Diet is an effective weight loss program. Patients consume a controlled number of daily calories while having normal food intake. Food intake can be a combination of normal food or partial meal replacement products.

Glycemic Control Program:

This diet, also known as a Low-carb diet, focuses on decreasing carbohydrate intake. Thus resulting in lower insulin levels.  This makes the body burn stored fat for energy. Which then leads to weight and health risk reduction for many health conditions.

The diet causes the body to burn stored fat for energy and ultimately helps you shed excess weight. Resulting in reduced risk factors for a variety of health conditions.  The diet focuses on healthy proteins. This includes meat, fish, poultry, eggs, and nonstarchy vegetables.  It will also exclude or limits many carbohydrate foods. Such as grains, breads, fruits, pastas, sweets and starchy vegetables.

Best Weight Loss Exercise

There is no single “best” exercise for weight loss. This will depend on what kind of exercise you like to do, your fitness level, medical conditions, dietary habits, and overall lifestyle. However, there are certain types of exercise that are more effective than others in burning calories and promoting weight loss.

One of the most effective exercises for weight loss is cardiovascular or aerobic exercise. This type of exercise raises your heart rate and increases blood flow, which in turn burns calories and promotes weight loss. Examples of cardiovascular exercises include: