Discover Non-Surgical Weight Solutions: Medications for Lasting Weight Loss
Sometimes, medication can be a highly effective solution for achieving and maintaining weight without the need for surgery. We are proud to offer a range of carefully curated medication options to those who qualify, providing personalized and non-surgical pathways to successful weight loss at Nashville Weight Loss Solutions.
Who Would Benefit from Weight Loss Medication?
Our Medical Weight Loss Program is tailored for individuals facing significant weight challenges, making it an ideal solution for those struggling with obesity or overweight conditions.
Designed for those in need of personalized medication options, the program is particularly beneficial for candidates seeking effective and non-surgical approaches to weight loss. Those with health-related comorbidities, a BMI >30, or >27 with at least one weight-related comorbidity, find tailored solutions within our program.
Ideal candidates are committed to lifestyle changes, embracing healthier eating habits and incorporating regular physical activity, while having specific weight loss goals in mind. Our program caters to a diverse range of individuals, providing structured and effective support for those dedicated to achieving lasting and healthy transformations.
Medical Weight Loss Program
Our Medical Weight Loss Program, under the careful supervision of Dr. Houston and a team of nurse practitioners and registered dietitians, is designed to offer a holistic approach to weight management and encompasses two key components: prescription medications for weight loss and STAR Coaching.
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Upon your initial consultation with our providers, a thorough review of your medical history will help determine the most suitable weight loss medication for your unique needs. Monthly follow-up visits ensure ongoing monitoring for potential side effects and assess the effectiveness of the prescribed medications. Our providers also track your overall progress and health in relation to your diet and exercise program.
STAR (Start Transforming and Achieve Results) Coaching, led by our passionate registered dietitian, Tiffany Adams, provides essential nutritional education and accountability. Tiffany conducts a comprehensive nutritional assessment, including weight measurement, meal planning, and education on healthy eating for weight loss. Monthly follow-up sessions with the dietitian, aligned with provider visits, facilitate ongoing support, addressing questions, reviewing food journals, and adjusting eating plans for sustained success.
STAR Coaching
Program Costs
Provider visits for weight loss counseling and prescription medications are billed to your insurance company like regular office visits, subject to co-pays, deductibles, and out-of-pocket expenses.
Unfortunately, routine dietitian visits are typically not covered by insurance.
Therefore, a one-time fee of $300 is applicable for STAR Coaching services, covering program materials, the initial assessment, close monitoring for the first month, and subsequent monthly visits as long as you remain in the program.
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Prescription Costs
Insurance coverage for weight loss medications varies widely. To determine coverage, contact your insurance company and inquire about coverage.
Costs, if covered, usually range from $30 to $40 per month. If not covered, certain drugs like Contrave and Qsymia can be affordable at $95 per month. Unfortunately, Saxenda and Wegovy may be cost-prohibitive (>$1,000/month) even with insurance coverage. Phentermine, typically not covered by insurance, is affordable at approximately $20-30 per month.
Medications for Weight Loss
Numerous effective weight loss medications are currently on the market, each working in unique ways to help control appetite, reduce cravings, manage portion sizes, and boost metabolism. These medications have shown great success when incorporated into a comprehensive approach that includes a balanced diet and regular exercise.
They can also complement specific programs, like the Ideal Protein Weight Loss Method, to enhance results. Depending on your medical history and insurance coverage, you may be prescribed one or two of these medications to achieve successful weight loss outcomes.
Adipex-P® (Phentermine)
​Adipex is the leading brand name of the generic drug Phentermine, which is similar in structure to amphetamine. Phentermine operates by influencing key components of the central nervous system. This strategic influence translates into a dual benefit for individuals seeking weight loss: appetite suppression and heightened energy levels. When integrated into a holistic approach involving a health-conscious diet and regular exercise, Phentermine becomes a catalyst for lifestyle modifications that yield substantial weight loss results. However, Phentermine is not approved for long-term use.
Contrave (Bupropion/Naltrexone)
Contrave emerges as a comprehensive combination drug treatment tailored for combating obesity. Integrating the properties of Bupropion (Wellbutrin) and Naltrexone, Contrave strategically targets pathways within the central nervous system that play pivotal roles in regulating food intake. While each individual drug has demonstrated some level of effectiveness in weight loss, their synergistic interaction in the Contrave formula enhances the overall impact. One distinctive feature of Contrave is its influence on the brain's reward pathway, leading to a reduction in appetite and diminished food cravings.
Saxenda (Liraglutide)
Saxenda, a once-daily injectable drug, is specifically designed for chronic weight management in adult patients facing obesity challenges, indicated by a BMI greater than 30 or greater than 27 with at least one weight-related comorbidity. As a GLP-1 receptor agonist, Saxenda exerts its effects in two essential ways. Firstly, it operates in the brain to significantly reduce appetite and cravings, addressing the root causes of overeating. Secondly, Saxenda undertakes a direct action on the stomach, strategically slowing gastric emptying. This dual mechanism contributes to fostering portion control and early satiety, empowering individuals to make sustainable dietary choices.
Qsymia (Phentermine/Topamax)
Qsymia, a unique combination of Phentermine and Topamax, stands as a viable option for the extended treatment of obesity. The inclusion of a lower dose of Phentermine in Qsymia distinguishes it from standalone Phentermine use, making it suitable for long-term support. Individuals who have experienced positive results with Phentermine and are seeking a sustained solution may find Qsymia beneficial. This combination medication addresses the complexities of obesity management, offering a tailored approach for those requiring extended therapeutic support.
Zepbound and Mounjaro (Tirzepatide)
Zepbound, a brand of the medication tirzepatide, is designed and FDA-approved to tackle overweight and obesity. Its counterpart, Mounjaro, also containing tirzepatide, is FDA-approved for managing type 2 diabetes. While they have distinct names and FDA indications, both share the same active ingredients and dosages. Tirzepatide works by suppressing appetite, reducing cravings, and enhancing metabolic balance. As a result, individuals on their weight loss journey experience effective control over their food intake, leading to sustained weight management.
Wegovy and Ozempic (Semaglutide)
Wegovy and Ozempic are both GLP-1 receptor agonists, injected once weekly for distinct health purposes. Wegovy, akin to Saxenda, specializes in weight management. It operates in the brain to reduce hunger and cravings while slowing gastric emptying in the stomach, leading to satisfaction with smaller meals. Recent studies highlight Wegovy as one of the premier weight loss medications available. Ozempic, primarily developed for glycemic control in type 2 diabetes, also offers weight loss benefits. Administered weekly, it impacts appetite control and gastric emptying, providing a dual solution for those managing diabetes and striving for weight loss.
Popular Options
Gastric Bypass
This proven surgical technique involves creating a smaller stomach pouch, rerouting the digestive system to promote weight loss. Gastric bypass restricts food intake and alters how your body absorbs nutrients, leading to effective weight loss.
Gastric Sleeve
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A sleeve gastrectomy involves removing a portion of the stomach, resulting in a smaller, banana-shaped stomach.
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This reduces the amount of food you can eat, contributing to weight loss and promoting a healthier lifestyle.
Are you ready to reclaim your health?
Booking a consultation with Nashville Weight Loss Solutions is your gateway to a new you and our expert team is dedicated to guiding you on your life-changing journey. Take your first step and book a consultation today!