Oral Weight Loss Medication

Oral Weight Loss Medications: Their Role in Today’s GLP-1 Injectable World

January 22, 2025

Oral Weight Loss Medications: In 2024, GLP-1 injectable medications like Wegovy and Mounjaro have become the most commonly prescribed medications for weight loss. Their usage has doubled in the past two years, increasing from less than 10% in 2021 to 20% in 2023 (1). These medications are preferred due to their significant weight loss benefits and additional health improvements such as better blood sugar control, enhanced brain and heart function, and improved liver and pancreas function.

The Continuing Relevance of Oral Weight Loss Medications

GLP-1 injectable medications have dominated recent headlines, but oral weight loss medications like Qsymia, Contrave, and Phentermine continue to play a critical role in medical weight management. These medications offer unique advantages that cannot be overlooked in a comprehensive treatment approach.

Historical Context and Proven Track Record

Phentermine, for instance, has been available since 1959, providing a long history of usage compared to injectable GLP-1 medications like Saxenda, which have only been available since 2014. This extensive clinical experience offers valuable insights into long-term safety and efficacy.

Navigating Side Effects and Patient Preferences

Different side effect profiles exist for each medication, making it challenging to label any as the "safest." Critical considerations include:

  • Patient Tolerance: Some individuals cannot tolerate injections, making oral alternatives necessary.
  • Gastrointestinal Reactions: Nausea and vomiting may be less problematic with oral medications.
  • Individual Physiological Responses: Each patient's body responds differently to medications.

Practical Advantages of Oral Medications

  1. Accessibility: Easier to obtain compared to injectable medications with frequent shortages.
  2. Cost-Effectiveness: More affordable for patients paying out of pocket.
  3. Complementary Mechanisms: Distinct action that can complement injectable medications.

The Importance of Expert Guidance

A doctor who is a Diplomate of the American Board of Obesity Medicine has the specialized training to:

  • Assess individual patient needs
  • Understand complex medication interactions
  • Develop personalized treatment strategies
  • Safely combine medications for maximum effectiveness

Conclusion

While GLP-1 injectable medications have gained significant attention, oral weight loss medications remain a vital tool in medical weight loss. Their long-standing history, diverse mechanisms of action, and patient-specific advantages make them an essential consideration in comprehensive weight management strategies.

The key is personalization—understanding that no single medication works identically for every patient. Collaborative, patient-centered approaches that consider individual needs will continue to drive successful weight loss interventions.

Medical Weight Loss Done Right©
Dr. Leon Katz
Resource:
Research on GLP-1 Medications

This article is for educational purposes. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized medical advice.

Dr. Leon Katz MD, FACS, FASMBS, is a bariatrician specializing in non-surgical, medically supervised weight loss and currently practices at Dr. Leon Katz Medical Weight Loss Center.

oral weight loss medication
Leon Katz

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Dr. Leon Katz MD, FACS, FASMBS, is a bariatrician specializing in non-surgical, medically supervised weight loss. He focuses on patients seeking alternatives to surgery and those needing care after bariatric procedures. Dr. Katz was recently the director of a major medical weight loss program. With extensive experience in establishing successful weight management programs, he now concentrates exclusively on non-surgical weight loss solutions. Dr. Katz is a Diplomate of the American Board of Obesity Medicine and Fellow of American College of Surgeons. Dr. Katz currently practices at Dr. Leon Katz Medical Weight Loss Center.