How weight loss medication can help you reach a healthy weight

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Overweight

Can weight loss medication help you lose weight? Many people who are overweight or obese have tried all sorts of things without lasting success. 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 medication chosen, you can lose up to 20% of your body weight. Doctoronline can help you find the weight loss medication that best suits your situation, so you can safely begin your weight loss journey.

What is weight loss medication?

Weight loss medication is only available on prescription. People are eligible if they have 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 in conjunction with diet and lifestyle adjustments. This allows you to achieve results in a controlled manner, gain more control over your appetite and improve your daily habits. It helps you feel more energetic and supports your overall health, while you work towards your goals discreetly and safely.

"I finally have more energy and more control. I can manage my appetite much better now."

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.

By fully understanding how each medicine works, you can make a well-informed choice that best suits your situation.

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.

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?

The length of time you should take your chosen medication for optimal results will depend on the specific product, your personal circumstances, 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 will notice increasing results over time.

Stopping weight-loss medication suddenly is not recommended. You may experience withdrawal symptoms or regain the weight you have lost. If you wish to stop, you should always discuss it with your doctor first. With a doctor's guidance, you can stop safely by continuing to follow a balanced diet and maintaining 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 depends on your situation and preferences. Do you want to control your appetite better, or do you want to achieve the best possible results as quickly as possible? To what extent are you willing to adjust your diet and lifestyle? 

Use the decision aid and let the affiliated, EU-registered doctors guide you step-by-step towards a safe and well-considered choice.

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

What is Doctoronline?

With Doctoronline, you are in control of your health, in a way that is safe, reliable and accessible. We work with various doctors in the EU so that you can get a treatment that suits you. When you choose a treatment, a doctor will assess whether it is suitable for you based on a short online medical questionnaire. The entire process is designed to help you safely and reliably, with insight into every step. You can read more about how it works at Doctoronline here.