Healthy eating and exercise are important for weight loss, but they are not always enough. Many people still face plateaus, cravings, or inconsistent results. In some cases, medical therapies can help. Here are three options your provider may recommend.
Naltrexone
Naltrexone works on the brain’s reward system, making foods like sweets and fast food feel less satisfying. This can help reduce eating for pleasure rather than hunger. It is usually prescribed as a once-daily pill and often combined with other therapies.
- Possible side effects: nausea, headache, joint pain, trouble sleeping, or cold-like symptoms. Rarely, liver issues or mood changes can occur.
Sermorelin
Sermorelin stimulates natural growth hormone production, which supports lean muscle, metabolism, and body composition. More muscle means more calories burned, making it a useful long-term weight management tool.
It is given as a daily injection, typically before bedtime.
- Possible side effects: facial flushing, headache, nausea, or irritation at the injection site. Severe allergic reactions are rare but possible.
Liraglutide
Liraglutide helps regulate appetite by slowing digestion and reducing hunger signals in the brain. It also helps stabilize blood sugar levels, supporting steady, sustainable weight loss.
It is given as a daily injection, starting at a low dose that gradually increases.
- Possible side effects: nausea, diarrhea, constipation, headache, fatigue, or injection site reactions. Rarely, it may affect the thyroid, gallbladder, or pancreas.
Choosing What’s Right for You
These medications can help with weight management, but they are not a replacement for healthy habits. A licensed provider will guide you, monitor your progress, and adjust your plan as needed.
