Support with achieving a healthy weight through online healthcare

Weight loss Lisa 26 traffic

Overweight

Can weight loss medication help you lose weight? Many people who are overweight or obese have tried everything without lasting results, or are disappointed in the options offered by conventional healthcare. Weight loss medication, in combination with a suitable diet and lifestyle, can help you reach a healthy weight. Some medicines can reduce feelings of hunger, giving you more control over your appetite. This can help you learn healthier eating habits and feel better day to day. Depending on the medicine chosen, up to 20% of body weight can be lost. This makes losing weight more manageable and sustainable, with support right when you need it. 

What is weight loss medication?

Weight loss medication is prescription-only. People are eligible with a BMI of 30 or higher, or a BMI of 27 or higher with an obesity-related condition. Weight loss medication supports you in achieving your goals and works best when combined with diet and lifestyle changes. This allows you to see results faster than with diet or exercise alone. It can help you gain control over your appetite and eating habits. This makes it easier to stay consistent, you can feel more energised, and maintaining a healthy weight supports your overall health. 

"I finally got the support I needed. I have more energy and feel more in control. I can manage my appetite much better now."

What is Doctoronline?

At Doctoronline, you're in control of your health. In a safe, reliable and accessible way. We partner with various EU-based doctors to ensure you can get a treatment that's right for you. When you choose a treatment, a doctor assesses if it's suitable for you based on a short online medical questionnaire. This ensures you receive the right treatment. Your request is then sent to one of our pharmacies to be fulfilled and delivered to your home. You can read more about how it works at Doctoronline here.

Which weight loss medication can I use?

Several weight loss medications have been approved for the European market for the treatment of being overweight or obese. These include:  

  • Wegovy 
  • Saxenda 
  • Orlistat 
  • Mounjaro 
  • Mysimba 
  • Xenical

The administration methods range from injections to tablets and capsules. The frequency of use depends on the administration method, your personal circumstances and your preferences. They typically work by: 

  • suppressing your hunger; 
  • reducing your appetite; 
  • slowing the rate at which your stomach empties; 
  • reducing fat absorption.

Risks and side effects of weight loss medication

All medicines can cause side effects, and weight loss medication is no exception. Some of the most common side effects include:  

  • Headache 
  • Stomach and bowel problems
  • Diarrhoea 
  • Abdominal pain 

Side effects vary from one medicine to another and from person to person. Always read the patient information leaflet for a full list of the side effects for your specific product.

Would you like to learn more about the different types of weight loss medication, how they work, and what you can do to reach a healthy weight? If so, take a look at our comparison of weight loss medicines.

How long should I take weight-loss medication, and can I stop suddenly?

How long you should take the chosen medication for optimal results depends on the specific medicine, your personal situation and your preferences. A doctor may advise you to take the medication for longer, or to switch to a different one to achieve the best possible results. Generally, most people notice increasing results over time.  

Stopping weight loss medication suddenly is not recommended. You may experience withdrawal symptoms or regain the weight you lost. Always speak to your doctor if you are considering stopping. You can stop safely with a doctor's guidance and by maintaining a balanced diet and sticking to your lifestyle changes. This gives you the best chance of keeping the weight off. 

Which weight loss medication is right for you?

The best weight loss medication for you will depend on your personal situation and preferences. Are you looking to better control your appetite, or do you want to achieve the best possible results as quickly as possible? How willing are you to change your diet and lifestyle? 

Use our decision aid and let our affiliated, EU-registered doctors help you make an informed choice. The comparison table can also give you a clearer idea of what each medicine does and how it can help you reach your goals.

Comparison table

Dosage form

Injection

Weight loss potential

up to 20%

Effect

Reduces appetite

Use

Once a week according to dosing schedule

Active ingredient

Semaglutide

Dosage form

Injection

Weight loss potential

15-20%

Effect

Reduces appetite

Use

Once a week according to dosing schedule

Active ingredient

Tirzepatide

Dosage form

Injection

Weight loss potential

up to 10%

Effect

Reduces appetite

Use

Daily according to dosing schedule

Active ingredient

Liraglutide

Dosage form

Tablet

Weight loss potential

5-10%

Effect

Reduces the feeling of hunger

Use

Daily according to dosing schedule

Active ingredient

Naltrexone/bupropion

Dosage form

Capsule

Weight loss potential

5-10% (if combined with a low-calorie diet)

Effect

Reduces fat absorption

Use

Maximum of three times a day

Active ingredient

Orlistat

Dosage form

Capsule

Weight loss potential

5-10% (if combined with a low-calorie diet)

Effect

Reduces fat absorption

Use

Maximum of three times a day

Active ingredient

Orlistat

Partner doctors

You know your body best and what is right for you. However, it can sometimes be difficult to make the right choice. The doctors who partner with Doctoronline can help you with this.