Medical weight loss, properly supervised

Medical weight loss uses prescription medications that act on the biological systems regulating hunger, appetite and metabolism, under the supervision of a licensed provider. Rather than relying on willpower alone, these medications work with your body's hormonal signalling to reduce appetite and support fat loss. They are used alongside nutrition and activity changes, not instead of them.

Semaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist — a medication that mimics a natural hormone called GLP-1. It reduces appetite, increases feelings of fullness and slows the rate at which food leaves the stomach. It has been shown to produce significant weight loss in clinical trials of the FDA-approved branded products.

Tirzepatide is a dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist, meaning it acts on two hormone pathways involved in appetite and blood sugar regulation. Clinical trials of the FDA-approved branded product have demonstrated substantial weight loss.

Results vary considerably between individuals, and no result can be guaranteed. Published clinical trials of the FDA-approved branded formulations of these medications have reported average weight loss ranging from roughly the mid-teens to the low twenties as a percentage of body weight when combined with lifestyle modification. Those trials studied the branded, FDA-approved products under controlled conditions — they were not studies of compounded preparations, and your own result will depend on your starting point, your dose, your adherence and your lifestyle. Your provider will set realistic expectations based on your individual health profile.

The most commonly reported side effects of GLP-1 medications include nausea, constipation, diarrhea, vomiting and reduced appetite, particularly when starting treatment or increasing the dose. Less common but more serious risks have been reported, including pancreatitis and gallbladder disease, and these medications are not appropriate for people with certain personal or family medical histories. Your provider will review the full risk profile with you, start at a low dose and titrate gradually.

Treatment duration varies. Some patients use medication for several months to reach a goal weight; others continue longer to maintain results. Weight regain after stopping is common. Your provider will work with you to determine an appropriate plan.

Weight loss consultations can be conducted in person at our Palmdale clinic or via telehealth — whichever is more convenient. Follow-up check-ins can also be conducted virtually.

Yes. Your medication is prepared by a US-based, FDA-registered compounding pharmacy and shipped directly to your door. Compounded medications are not FDA-approved products — they are prepared pursuant to an individual prescription and have not undergone FDA premarket review for safety and efficacy. Your provider will explain how this differs from the commercially manufactured branded products and why a compounded preparation is or is not appropriate for you.

Yes — medication works best alongside nutrition and activity changes, and the clinical trial results for these medications were achieved in combination with lifestyle modification. Your provider can offer guidance.

Every patient is evaluated individually before any medication is prescribed, treatment is supervised by a licensed provider, and your progress is monitored with regular check-ins. That said, no medication is without risk. GLP-1 and related medications have known side effects and contraindications, and compounded preparations have not undergone FDA premarket review. Whether this program is appropriate for you is a clinical judgement your provider will make with you after reviewing your health history, medications and lab results. Contact your provider promptly if you experience side effects, and call 911 in an emergency.