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If you're struggling to lose weight despite diet and exercise, medical weight management may help. Our practice offers personalized weight loss programs that may include GLP-1 medications and NAD+ therapy as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
Below are answers to our most frequently asked questions.
What are GLP-1 medications?
GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) receptor agonists are prescription medications that help regulate appetite, slow stomach emptying, and improve blood sugar control. Certain GLP-1 medications are FDA-approved for chronic weight management in eligible adults, while others are approved for type 2 diabetes and may also promote weight loss.
Examples include:
Your provider will determine which medication, if any, is appropriate based on your medical history and treatment goals.
How do GLP-1 medications help with weight loss?
GLP-1 medications work in several ways by helping to:
These medications work best when combined with healthy nutrition, regular physical activity, adequate sleep, and long-term lifestyle changes.
Who is a candidate for GLP-1 weight loss treatment?
You may be a candidate if you meet medical criteria for weight management, such as:
Your provider will perform a comprehensive evaluation before recommending treatment.
How much weight can I lose with GLP-1 medications?
Weight loss varies from person to person and depends on factors such as the medication used, dose, adherence, nutrition, physical activity, and underlying health conditions.
Clinical trials of FDA-approved medications have shown meaningful average weight loss for many participants when combined with lifestyle interventions. Your provider can discuss what may be realistic based on your individual situation.
How are GLP-1 medications administered?
Many GLP-1 medications for weight management are given as a once-weekly injection.
Your healthcare team will teach you how to use your medication safely.
What are the most common side effects?
The most common side effects are gastrointestinal and may include:
These side effects often improve as your body adjusts to treatment. Your provider may gradually increase your dose to improve tolerability.
Are GLP-1 medications safe?
GLP-1 medications have been studied extensively and can be safe and effective for appropriate patients when prescribed and monitored by a qualified healthcare professional.
However, they are not appropriate for everyone. Your provider will review your medical history, medications, and potential risks before recommending treatment.
Who should not take GLP-1 medications?
GLP-1 medications may not be appropriate for individuals with certain medical conditions, including:
Tell your provider about your complete medical history and all medications you take.
Will I need to stay on the medication long term?
Obesity is considered a chronic medical condition. Some patients benefit from long-term treatment to help maintain weight loss, while others may transition to different strategies.
Your treatment plan will be individualized and reviewed regularly with your provider.
What is NAD+ therapy?
NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) is a naturally occurring coenzyme found in every cell of the body. It plays an important role in cellular energy production and other metabolic processes.
Some medical and wellness practices offer NAD+ therapy—often by intravenous (IV) infusion or injection—as part of broader wellness programs. Research into its clinical benefits is ongoing, and its use for many wellness purposes has not been established by the FDA.
Does NAD+ therapy help with weight loss?
NAD+ therapy is not an FDA-approved weight loss treatment, and current scientific evidence does not establish that it causes meaningful weight loss on its own.
Some patients choose NAD+ therapy as part of a broader wellness plan, but it should not be viewed as a substitute for evidence-based weight management strategies such as nutrition, physical activity, behavioral changes, or prescribed medications when appropriate.
Why might NAD+ therapy be offered with a medical weight loss program?
Some practices incorporate NAD+ therapy into wellness programs with the goal of supporting overall well-being during lifestyle changes.
While some patients report feeling more energetic or experiencing improved well-being, these outcomes have not been consistently demonstrated in high-quality clinical trials, and responses vary from person to person.
Your provider can discuss the current evidence, potential risks, costs, and whether NAD+ therapy is appropriate for your situation.
What are the possible side effects of NAD+ therapy?
Side effects vary depending on the route of administration and the individual.
Possible side effects may include:
Your provider will review potential risks before treatment.
Can GLP-1 medications and NAD+ therapy be used together?
Some practices may offer NAD+ therapy alongside GLP-1 medications as part of an individualized wellness program.
However, there is limited high-quality evidence evaluating the combined use of these therapies for weight loss. Your provider will recommend treatments based on your medical history, goals, and the best available evidence.
What does our medical weight loss program include?
Our comprehensive approach focuses on long-term success and may include:
Our goal is to help you achieve safe, sustainable, and medically supervised weight management.
Will insurance cover treatment?
Insurance coverage varies by medication, diagnosis, and individual health plan.
Some FDA-approved GLP-1 medications may be covered if specific criteria are met. Coverage for NAD+ therapy is uncommon because it is generally considered a wellness service.
Our team can help review your benefits and discuss available treatment options.
Schedule Your Weight Management Consultation
If you're interested in learning more about medically supervised weight loss, our providers can help you determine whether a GLP-1 medication, lifestyle changes, or other treatment options are right for you.
During your consultation, we'll review your health history, discuss your goals, and develop a personalized plan designed to support your long-term health and wellness.