Medication-Assisted Weight Loss
Medication Options
This page is for adults who want medical help to lose weight.
We offer medication-assisted weight loss by telehealth across Washington and Idaho. Our clinic is in Spokane.
Semaglutide This drug is used to control high blood sugar in type 2 diabetes. It also helps with weight loss. It copies the GLP-1 hormone. That hormone controls appetite and insulin.
Tirzepatide This drug is in the same class as semaglutide. In simple terms, it is a stronger version. We save it for patients who have plateaued on semaglutide. A plateau is when weight loss stops.
LDN/bupropion Low dose naltrexone (LDN) plus bupropion can reduce hunger and control cravings. Patients can expect to lose 5-10% of body weight over 12-16 months. This is with a reduced calorie diet and more physical activity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Semaglutide or tirzepatide? We suggest starting with semaglutide. It is strong enough for any goal, from 10 lbs to 100 lbs. Over time, semaglutide can stop working as well. This can take months or years. Then you can switch to tirzepatide. If you start with tirzepatide and plateau, there is no stronger drug to switch to.
Are there side effects? Some patients have had constipation, upset stomach, nausea, vomiting, headache, dizziness, burping, gas, and heartburn. We follow you closely. We plan ahead to prevent most side effects before your first injection.
Why do we micro-dose semaglutide and tirzepatide? Micro-dosing means using very small doses. We have found three benefits:
- Fewer and milder side effects.
- Less unhealthy weight loss. Losing several pounds in one week often means losing muscle.
- A later plateau, so you keep losing weight longer.
Who is a great candidate? A great candidate has a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher. A BMI of 27 or higher also qualifies with at least one weight-related condition. Examples are type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol.
Who should not use semaglutide? Do not use semaglutide if you are pregnant. Also avoid it with severe gastrointestinal disease or a history of pancreatitis. Do not use it if you are allergic to it. It is also not for people with a history of medullary thyroid carcinoma. The same is true for multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2. If this is you, other options may be available.
Are We the Right Fit for You?
Schedule a free 15-minute call with a clinician. We will talk about your health and answer your questions. We serve adults in Washington and Idaho by telehealth.
Call or Text 509-720-6314 Email Care@evergreenmed.health