Weight Management for Women

What We Offer:

One-on-One Telehealth Visits with a Licensed Provider

• Telehealth Visits with a Licensed Provider

• Personalized Prescriptions When Appropriate
  (GLP-1s, metformin, topiramate, bupropion, and more)

• Prescriptions Sent to Your Pharmacy of Choice — not locked into subscriptions

• Support for PCOS, perimenopause, hormonal weight gain, and emotional eating

• Optional Labs & Supplements to personalize your plan

Medications for Weight Management

FDA-Approved Weight Management Medications

Semaglutide (Wegovy®)

A once-weekly injection that mimics GLP-1, a gut hormone that helps regulate appetite, reduce food cravings, and promote fullness. Clinically proven for long-term obesity treatment in individuals with obesity or pre-obesity with an associated medical condition.

Tirzepatide (Zepbound™)

A dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist offering appetite regulation and metabolic support. Shown to produce slightly greater symptomatic control (weight).

Liraglutide (Saxenda®)

A daily GLP-1 injection that increases satiety and slows digestion. FDA-approved for chronic obesity treatment in adults and adolescents with obesity.

Generic is available.

Phentermine

A stimulant that suppresses appetite and increases energy levels. Although originally approved for short-term use, it is commonly prescribed long-term in clinical practice. Research supports its safety and effectiveness for extended use under medical supervision

Phentermine/Topiramate ER (Qsymia®)

A combination capsule taken daily that reduces appetite and cravings while supporting fullness. Offers more sustained results than phentermine alone.

Orlistat (Alli®, Xenical®)

An over-the-counter and prescription fat-blocking medication that prevents the absorption of about 25% of dietary fat. Works best when combined with a reduced-fat diet.

Naltrexone/Bupropion ER (Contrave®)

A daily oral medication that targets hunger and reward-based eating. Works in the brain to reduce food cravings and improve emotional eating patterns.

Compounded and Generic Weight Management Medications

Compounded Semaglutide

A once-weekly injection that mimics GLP-1, a gut hormone that helps regulate appetite, reduce food cravings, and promote fullness.Compounded formulations allow for flexible dosing and may include additional ingredients like B12 to support energy or reduce side effects.

Compounded Tirzepatide

A dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist that activates two hormone pathways involved in appetite and blood sugar regulation. It may help control cravings, enhance fullness, and support weight reduction.

Compounded Liraglutide

Compounded Oral Semaglutide

A daily injectable medication that mimics a natural hormone involved in appetite regulation and blood sugar control. It helps slow digestion, increase feelings of fullness, and reduce overall food intake.

An alternative to weekly injections, this formulation comes in a daily oral dose. It works by mimicking gut hormones that regulate appetite and digestion, helping reduce hunger and support weight loss. Compounded versions offer flexibility in dosing but may require a much higher dose and have increased side effecs.

Bupropion

Originally developed as an antidepressant and smoking cessation aid, bupropion is used in weight management to reduce appetite, improve energy, and enhance motivation. It may also support mood and reduce emotional eating

Topiramate

A medication originally approved for seizure disorders and migraine prevention, topiramate is also used to support weight loss. It can reduce appetite, decrease food cravings, and enhance feelings of fullness.

Naltrexone (Standard Dose)

Low-Dose Naltrexone (LDN)

Typically used in higher doses to reduce cravings and block reward-driven eating behaviors. It targets the brain's opioid receptors to help manage compulsive eating, particularly in individuals with addictive tendencies or emotional eating patterns. Often combined with other medications for greater effect.

Prescribed in much smaller amounts (typically 1.5–4.5 mg daily), LDN may help regulate appetite, reduce inflammation, and improve mood. Commonly used for patients with emotional eating, chronic stress, or underlying autoimmune or inflammatory conditions.

Other Possible Weight Management Medications

Metformin

Primarily used for blood sugar control and insulin resistance, metformin may also support modest weight loss, reduce appetite, and improve metabolic markers. Commonly used in PCOS and prediabetes.

Acarbose

An alpha-glucosidase inhibitor that slows carbohydrate absorption and may blunt post-meal blood sugar spikes. Sometimes used in patients with prediabetes or metabolic syndrome.

Zonisamide

An anticonvulsant medication sometimes used off-label for weight reduction. It may suppress appetite and reduce food cravings. Often reserved for patients who don’t respond to other medications.

Pramlintide

A synthetic amylin analog used to slow gastric emptying, reduce post-meal glucose spikes, and increase satiety. May be used in combination with GLP-1s or in insulin-resistant patients.

Benzphetamine or Diethylpropion

Older stimulant medications approved for short-term appetite suppression. Used less commonly but may be appropriate in specific patient cases.

Setmelanotide

Indicated for rare genetic obesity syndromes; this melanocortin-4 receptor agonist is not widely used outside of those specific conditions but represents a precision approach in certain patients.

SGLT2 Inhibitors (e.g., Canagliflozin, Dapagliflozin)

Primarily prescribed for Type 2 diabetes, these medications promote glucose loss through urine, leading to modest weight loss and improved metabolic markers. Occasionally used off-label in non-diabetics under close monitoring.

Some antidepressants may modestly reduce appetite or support behavioral change in patients with emotional or compulsive eating, though results vary and side effects must be considered.

Fluoxetine or Other SSRIs

Baclofen

A muscle relaxant that may reduce cravings and compulsive eating behaviors by acting on GABA receptors. Sometimes used in patients with significant emotional or binge eating.

Specialty & Investigational Medications

Oxytocin (Intranasal or Sublingual)

A naturally occurring hormone linked to bonding, stress regulation, and appetite control. Early research suggests oxytocin may help reduce food intake, improve emotional eating patterns, and enhance satisfaction with smaller meals. Sometimes used off-label to support behavioral health and connection.

Bromocriptine

Originally used for Parkinson’s disease and prolactin-related conditions, bromocriptine is a dopamine agonist that may improve metabolic function, insulin sensitivity, and circadian rhythm regulation. It has shown modest weight loss effects in certain patients with metabolic dysfunction, especially those with hormonal imbalances or hypothalamic obesity.

Sermorelin/GHRP Blends

Compounded peptides that support metabolism and fat loss through natural growth hormone stimulation. Typically used for body composition support.

Medications by Obesity Phenotype

Obesity isn’t one-size-fits-all. Different biological pathways contribute to how and why weight gain happens. At Optima Vida Healthcare, we identify your unique phenotype to personalize your treatment plan.

Hungry Brain
Involves dysfunction in the central nervous system's appetite regulation and reward pathways. Patients often experience constant food thoughts, poor satiety, and compulsive or impulsive eating behaviors.

Hungry Gut
Driven by abnormalities in gut hormone signaling (GLP-1, GIP, ghrelin). These individuals feel physically hungry often and struggle with portion control or early satiety.

Slow Burn
Linked to metabolic and hormonal dysfunction, such as insulin resistance, low energy expenditure, or thyroid and growth hormone imbalances. Weight gain is often gradual and stubborn.

Emotional Hunger
Related to neurochemical and emotional regulation pathways involving dopamine, serotonin, and GABA. Eating is often triggered by stress, sadness, anxiety, or trauma, rather than physical hunger.

Hungry Brain

Characterized by constant thoughts about food, poor satiety signals, compulsive eating, and reward-seeking behavior.

Hungry Gut

Marked by excessive appetite, strong physical hunger, and poor meal satisfaction.

Emotional Hunger

Eating in response to stress, boredom, sadness, or anxiety, rather than physical hunger.

Naltrexone (Standard Dose) – Reduces reward-driven eating and food obsession.

Low-Dose Naltrexone (LDN) – Supports mood, reduces compulsive cravings, and may calm emotional reactivity.

Bupropion – Helps with motivation, mood, and appetite control; often combined with other agents.

Topiramate – Decreases cravings, impulsive eating, and promotes fullness.

Zonisamide – May reduce binge and compulsive eating in select patients.

Baclofen – Targets GABA receptors to reduce urges and compulsive food behaviors.

Fluoxetine or Other SSRIs – Can support emotional regulation and reduce emotionally triggered eating.

Semaglutide (Compounded) – Mimics GLP-1 to reduce appetite, slow digestion, and enhance fullness.

Tirzepatide (Compounded) – Targets two gut hormones (GLP-1 and GIP) to control hunger and cravings.

Liraglutide (Compounded) – Daily GLP-1 that reduces hunger signals and increases satiety.

Oral Semaglutide (Compounded) – A daily capsule alternative that supports satiety and hunger control.

Pramlintide – Slows gastric emptying and enhances fullness after meals.

Phentermine – Suppresses appetite and enhances energy levels.

Topiramate – Reduces physical hunger and helps patients feel full sooner.

Low-Dose Naltrexone (LDN) – Calms the nervous system, reduces obsessive food thoughts, and supports emotional resilience.

Bupropion – Boosts mood and motivation while reducing stress-related eating.

Naltrexone (Standard Dose) – Reduces emotional and reward-driven eating patterns.

Baclofen – May help interrupt the cycle of emotionally triggered overeating.

Fluoxetine or SSRIs – Address underlying depression or anxiety that may fuel overeating.

Topiramate – Dulls the emotional drive to eat and helps promote a sense of satiety.

Metformin – Improves insulin sensitivity and may support modest weight loss.

SGLT2 Inhibitors – Promote glucose excretion, support fat loss, and improve metabolic function.

Acarbose – Reduces carbohydrate absorption and helps manage post-meal blood sugar.

Sermorelin – Stimulates natural growth hormone release to support fat loss and muscle maintenance.

Sermorelin/GHRP Blends – Enhance metabolic function, recovery, and lean mass preservation.

Tirzepatide (Compounded) – Improves both glucose and fat metabolism through dual hormone action.

Topiramate – May provide metabolic support and appetite suppression, especially in combination plans.

Slow Burn

Driven by a sluggish metabolism, insulin resistance, or low energy expenditure.

Wegovy®

What is Wegovy®?
Wegovy® is an FDA-approved, once-weekly injectable prescription medication used for long-term weight management in adults with obesity (BMI ≥30) or overweight (BMI ≥27) with at least one weight-related condition such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol. It contains semaglutide, a medication that mimics a natural hormone involved in appetite regulation and blood sugar control..

How Wegovy® Works

• Helps reduce hunger and increase feelings of fullness

• Targets areas of the brain involved in appetite regulation

• Supports a calorie deficit by lowering cravings and improving portion control

• May help improve blood sugar, cholesterol, and other metabolic markers

What to Expect

• Weekly injection: Administered subcutaneously (under the skin) in the thigh, stomach, or upper arm

• Gradual dose increase: Starts at a low dose to reduce side effects, with increases every 4 weeks until the target dose is reached (2.4 mg weekly)

• Ongoing support: Treatment is most effective when combined with healthy nutrition, physical activity, and behavioral changes

Common Side Effects

• Nausea

• Diarrhea or constipation

• Headache

• Fatigue

• Stomach pain

• Injection site reactions

Most side effects are mild and improve with time or dose adjustment. Contact your provider if symptoms are persistent or severe.

Who Should Not Use Wegovy®

• People with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or MEN 2

• Patients with a known allergy to semaglutide

• Women who are pregnant or planning pregnancy

Discuss all medical conditions and medications with your provider before starting treatment.

How It’s Prescribed

At Optima Vida Healthcare, your prescription can be sent:

• Directly to your pharmacy of choice (retail or specialty)

• Through NovoCare®, Novo Nordisk’s patient support program (May be $499)

💲 Cash price (without insurance): Currently listed by Novo Nordisk at $1349.02/month
💡 We will help with prior authorization if using insurance, depending on your plan.

Is Wegovy® Right for You?

Wegovy® may be a good fit if:

• You have obesity or are overweight with a weight-related condition

• You've struggled with weight despite trying other methods

• You're looking for a medically-supervised long-term solution

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How fast will I lose weight?
A: Most patients lose weight gradually over months. The average weight loss is 15%. So if you weigh 300 lbs, the average weight loss is 45 lbs.

Q: Can I stop once I reach my goal weight?
A: Wegovy® is designed for long-term use. Stopping can lead to weight regain, just like stopping treatment for blood pressure or diabetes.

Q: Can I switch between Wegovy® and other weight loss medications?
A: It’s possible but should only be done under medical supervision. Switching too often can disrupt progress or increase side effects.

Zepbound®

What is Zepbound®?

Zepbound® is an FDA‑approved, once‑weekly injectable prescription medication designed for chronic weight management in adults with obesity (BMI ≥30) or overweight (BMI ≥27) plus at least one weight‑related health condition (e.g., hypertension, type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol). It’s also FDA‑approved to help improve moderate‑to‑severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in adults with obesity

How Zepbound® Works

• Activates both GLP‑1 and GIP receptors to suppress appetite, slow gastric emptying, and increase fullness

• Supports significant weight loss—up to ~18% of body weight at the 15 mg dose over 72 weeks (~45–50 lb) in clinical studies

• In OSA patients, reduced apnea events by ~25–29/hour and achieved remission/mild OSA in up to 50% of participants alongside notable weight loss

What to Expect

• Weekly injection: Administered subcutaneously (under the skin) in the thigh, stomach, or upper arm

• Gradual dose increase: Starts at a low dose to reduce side effects, with increases every 4 weeks until the target dose is reached (2.4 mg weekly)

• Ongoing support: Treatment is most effective when combined with healthy nutrition, physical activity, and behavioral changes

Common Side Effects

Frequent side effects (more common than placebo) include:

• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, abdominal discomfort

• Injection-site reactions, fatigue, hair loss, gastroesophageal reflux

Other important effects may include:

• Severe GI events, dehydration, potential kidney injury

• Gallbladder issues, pancreatitis

• Hypoglycemia (especially with insulin or sulfonylureas)

• Thyroid C-cell tumors in rats (human risk unknown)

• Rare allergic reactions, changes in mood, dizziness – patients are advised to report any new symptoms promptly

Who Should Not Use Zepbound®

• Individuals with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2)

• Known hypersensitivity to tirzepatide or formulation components

• Women who are pregnant or planning pregnancy—should discontinue treatment if pregnancy occurs.

Use caution or avoid in individuals with:

• Severe gastrointestinal disease or history of pancreatitis

• Renal impairment, gallbladder disorders, or those on insulin/sulfonylureas

Prescription & Administration Support

• Available as single‑use pens or vials (2.5–15 mg per 0.5 mL)

• Prescribed by a provider and can be filled at retail or specialty pharmacies.

• Patient support programs available via LillyDirect™ and other Lilly services

Is Zepbound® Right for You?

Zepbound® may be right if you:

• Have a BMI ≥30, or ≥27 with related health issues

• Struggle with weight loss despite lifestyle efforts

• Have moderate-to-severe OSA and obesity

• Want a medically supervised, long-term weight management solution

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How much weight can I expect to lose?
A: Clinical trials show average weight losses of ~35–50 lb (16–23 kg) with 72 weeks of 5–15 mg

Q: Can it help with sleep apnea?
A: Yes—studies in moderate‑to‑severe OSA showed a 25–29 reduction in apneas/hr and remission in ~42–50% of participants. Likely due to weight loss

Q: What happens if I stop treatment?
A: Discontinuation may lead to weight regain. Long-term maintenance under provider guidance is advised.

Q: Can I use Zepbound® along with other GLP‑1s?
A: No—it should not be taken alongside other tirzepatide-containing or GLP‑1 agonist

Liraglutide

What is Liraglutide?

Liraglutide is an FDA-approved, once-daily injectable medication used for chronic weight management in adults with obesity (BMI ≥30) or overweight (BMI ≥27) with at least one weight-related condition, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or type 2 diabetes. It is also used under a different brand name for type 2 diabetes treatment.

How Liraglutide Works

• Mimics a natural gut hormone (GLP-1) to help regulate appetite and blood sugar

• Slows digestion and increases feelings of fullness

• Helps reduce cravings and supports a lower calorie intake

• Promotes gradual, sustained weight loss over time

What to Expect

• Daily injection: Given subcutaneously (under the skin) in the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm

• Gradual titration: Starts at a low dose to reduce side effects, with weekly increases until the target dose is reached

• Used alongside healthy nutrition and physical activity for best results

Common Side Effects

• Nausea (most common)

• Vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation

• Headache

• Fatigue or dizziness

• Injection site irritation

Side effects are typically mild and improve with time or dose adjustments.

Who Should Not Use Liraglutide

• Anyone with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or MEN 2

• Individuals with a known allergy to liraglutide or its ingredients

• Women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant

Caution is advised in those with a history of pancreatitis or gallbladder disease.

How It’s Prescribed

Liraglutide is available by prescription and can be sent to:

• Your local retail or specialty pharmacy

• Mail-order services, depending on insurance coverage

💲 Cash price varies, but prior authorization support is available to help lower your out-of-pocket cost with insurance. We’ll walk you through it.

Is Liraglutide Right for You?

Liraglutide may be a good option if:

• You prefer a daily medication over weekly injections

• You’ve had difficulty with other weight loss medications

• You want a slower titration and potentially fewer GI side effects

• You have type 2 diabetes and want a medication that can support both weight and glucose control

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How much weight can I lose?
A: Clinical studies show an average weight loss of 5–10% of body weight with consistent use and lifestyle changes.

Q: How is it different from weekly injections like semaglutide or tirzepatide?
A: Liraglutide is taken daily and typically has a slower onset of side effects. Some patients prefer daily dosing for steadier control.

Q: What if I miss a dose?
A: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it’s close to your next scheduled dose. Don’t double up.

Q: Can I stop after reaching my goal weight?
A: Weight regain is common after stopping. Like other obesity medications, long-term use is recommended for weight maintenance.