Who is Eligible for Medication?
According to the latest guidelines, individuals who have made diligent efforts to improve their lifestyle but still have a body mass index (BMI) of ≥ 30 kg/m2 or ≥ 27 kg/m2 with an obesity-related comorbidity (such as hypertension, high cholesterol, diabetes, sleep apnea, and more) are considered eligible for weight loss medication treatment.
What Medications Are Available?
Our practice offers a range of FDA-approved anti-obesity medications to support your weight loss journey. These medications have been carefully evaluated and proven to be effective in aiding weight management. During your appointments, we will thoroughly discuss the treatment options available to you, taking into account your specific needs and circumstances.
The FDA-approved anti-obesity medications we prescribe include:
- GLP-1 receptor agonists: These medications, such as Wegovy (semaglutide), Saxenda (liraglutide), and Zepbound (tirzepatide, a combination GLP-1/GIP agonist) work by reducing appetite and increasing feelings of fullness.
- Qsymia: Qsymia combines topiramate and phentermine to help suppress appetite and promote weight loss.
- Contrave: This medication combines bupropion and naltrexone and works on the brain’s appetite control centers to reduce cravings and food intake.
- Imcivree: Imcivree (setmelanotide) is specifically indicated for individuals with certain genetic conditions that result in severe obesity.
- Alli: Alli (Orlistat) is an over-the-counter weight loss medication that reduces the absorption of dietary fat.
- Plenity: Plenity (hydrogel) is a prescription weight management aid that creates a feeling of fullness, leading to reduced food intake.
In addition to these options, there may be other medications available that are tailored to your specific health conditions. For instance, if you have a diagnosis of diabetes, medications such as Ozempic (semaglutide) and Mounjaro (tirzepatide) may be considered.
When determining the most suitable medication for you, we take into account various factors, including your underlying health conditions, potential interactions with other medications you may be taking, and cost considerations. Our goal is to find the medication that aligns best with your unique needs and provides optimal outcomes.
Rest assured, we will thoroughly review the treatment options with you during your appointments, ensuring that you are well-informed and comfortable with the chosen approach. Together, we will create a personalized treatment plan that maximizes your chances of success on your weight loss journey.
Is Medication Covered by Insurance?
The coverage for anti-obesity medication varies among insurance providers. While many insurances do cover these medications, it’s important to verify the specifics of your insurance plan to determine what is covered.
It’s worth noting that insurance coverage may vary in terms of the medication classes covered. Some medications may be included in the coverage, while others may not. Our team will work closely with you to navigate the complexities of insurance coverage and explore all available options.
It’s important to keep in mind that most insurances require you to meet certain criteria and demonstrate a specific amount of weight loss while on the medication to continue coverage. Our goal is to support you throughout your weight loss journey and help you meet the necessary requirements to maintain insurance coverage for the medication.
If your insurance does cover anti-obesity medication, we are dedicated to assisting you in obtaining prior authorization. We will work diligently to streamline the process and ensure that you have access to the medications that align with your treatment plan.
Please feel free to reach out to us with any insurance-related questions or concerns. Our team is here to provide guidance and support to help you make informed decisions regarding your weight loss journey and insurance coverage.