What information should I have before my initial doctor’s appointment?
Please list any other medications you have previously tried for your specific condition, including the dates of use and the reasons you believe they were ineffective for you.
Do medical weight loss programs work effectively?
Medical weight loss programs are effective because they integrate dietary and lifestyle changes along with appropriate medication under the guidance of a board-certified primary care doctor. Weight management medications can be a powerful tool for losing and maintaining weight, especially when combined with healthy dietary choices and regular exercise.
Will losing 5-10% of my body weight improve my health?
Scientific evidence shows that losing 5-10% of your body weight can improve various obesity-related conditions, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, high cholesterol, and more.
How can an online weight loss doctor help me lose weight?
You can lose weight with the help of our online platform, which offers a comprehensive treatment plan guided by a board-certified primary care doctor. Our platform features virtual visits with a physician to set treatment goals, track your weight loss progress in the app, and prescribe medication when medically necessary.
How quickly can you lose weight with a medical weight loss program?
Depending on your weight loss plan and eligibility for weight loss medication, you may lose approximately 5-10% of your initial weight over a 6-month period. With certain medications, individuals often lose weight at a rate of 1-2 pounds per week. For example, if you weigh 200 pounds, you could expect to lose 10-20 pounds by following doctor-recommended lifestyle changes alongside the medication.
What is the cost of weight loss medication?
The cost of weight loss medication varies depending on the type of medication that is recommended.
How can I obtain a weight loss prescription online?
If deemed medically appropriate, our board-certified primary care doctors can prescribe weight loss medications after an initial online consultation and any necessary lab evaluations are complete. Once the required testing is completed, your doctor will have a follow-up consultation to review the results and discuss the most suitable medication options for you. It's important to note that medication is most effective when combined with healthy lifestyle changes.
Your Optimal Lean Life physician and care team will have your prescription for your convenience, sent right to your door!
Can I get a prescription for a weight loss drug if I have a normal BMI?
No, we do not prescribe weight loss medication to new patients with a normal BMI, unless they provide outside records documenting previous obesity and prior medication therapy.
If I take weight management medications, do I still need to maintain a healthy diet and exercise to lose weight?
Yes, weight loss medications are most effective when integrated into a holistic treatment plan that includes long-term lifestyle changes. A board-certified primary care doctor will collaborate with you to develop a diet and exercise plan tailored to your needs.
Am I a candidate for weight loss medication?
Schedule a visit with one of our board-certified primary care doctors to determine the best weight management plan for your specific needs. This plan may or may not include medication. If medication is not an option for you, our doctors can still assist with creating a customized weight management plan that includes diet and exercise.
What happens if you discontinue weight loss medications?-
When weight loss medications are discontinued, many individuals tend to regain the lost weight. Medications like Semaglutide and Tirzaeptide work by reducing appetite to aid in weight loss, but evidence suggests that once these drugs are stopped, weight gain often occurs. The rate of weight regain after stopping weight loss medications varies among individuals; some may experience it sooner, while others later. Consistent commitment to exercise, including both cardio and strength training several days a week, is the only proven method to maintain your goal weight.
It's important to note that obtaining a prescription online without proper medical guidance can pose risks. It is recommended to consult your doctor for advice on how to use these medications safely. Whether you're considering a prescription online, your doctor plays a crucial role in ensuring a safe and effective weight loss journey.
What is the most effective method for weight management?
The most effective method for weight management involves long-term, sustainable lifestyle modifications. Medication can be a valuable tool for managing weight, especially when paired with a healthy diet and regular exercise. Medical weight loss programs integrate these elements under the supervision of a board-certified physician, ensuring that your weight management plan is safe, achievable, and sustainable.
What does weight management involve?
Weight management involves maintaining your goal weight over the long term. After losing weight, it's important to continue many of the dietary and lifestyle changes that initially helped you shed the pounds to ensure the weight stays off. Our doctors offer support to make weight management easier, continuously monitoring your progress even after you reach your goal weight to ensure sustainability.
Where is the best place to begin a weight loss journey?
Weight loss should start with healthy lifestyle changes, such as adopting a nutritious diet and establishing a regular exercise routine. To explore weight loss treatment plans and determine the best approach for you, consult with one of our board-certified primary care doctors today.
Who is eligible to join the Optimal Lean Life weight loss program?
Our weight loss program is designed to help you achieve a healthy weight. If you have a high BMI or a weight-related medical condition such as hypertension, high cholesterol, prediabetes, or fatty liver disease, you may be a candidate for weight loss medications.
BMI is calculated by dividing an individual's weight in pounds (lb) or kilograms (kg) by the square of their height in inches (in) or meters (m²).
We do not prescribe weight loss medication to patients with symptoms of an active eating disorder, such as bulimia nervosa, anorexia nervosa, or binge eating disorder. However, you can still join Optimal Lean Life and consult with a doctor regarding any of your health concerns, even if you are not enrolled in the weight loss program.
The weight loss medication I was prescribed is costly. Are there any ways to reduce the expense?
Optimal Lean Life is always actively engaged in working with insurance companies on preventative solutions to cover these costs.
Consider a cash payment option for your medication:
You could use your HSA or FSA for payment:
You can save an average of 30% by using pre-tax HSA or FSA funds for your medications.
