What Medications Are Used for Weight Loss? A Guide to FDA-Approved Options

If lifestyle changes alone aren’t helping you lose weight, prescription weight loss medications may be an option. These medications are designed to help people with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher, or 27+ with weight-related health conditions like high blood pressure or type 2 diabetes.

There are several FDA-approved medications for weight loss, each working in a different way—whether by reducing appetite, improving insulin sensitivity, or altering how your body digests food.

1. Semaglutide (Wegovy / Ozempic)
Originally developed for type 2 diabetes, semaglutide is now FDA-approved under the name Wegovy for weight loss. It mimics a hormone called GLP-1, which helps regulate blood sugar and signals fullness.

How it works: Reduces appetite, slows digestion
How it’s taken: Weekly injection
Average weight loss: 15–20% of body weight over time
Common side effects: Nausea, constipation, fatigue
Also known as: Ozempic (used off-label for weight loss)

2. Tirzepatide (Mounjaro)
Another newer medication originally for diabetes, Mounjaro mimics both GLP-1 and GIP hormones, offering even greater weight loss results in studies.

How it works: Enhances satiety, lowers blood sugar
How it’s taken: Weekly injection
Average weight loss: Up to 22% of body weight
Common side effects: Nausea, diarrhea, fatigue
FDA status: Approved for diabetes; weight loss use growing off-label

3. Phentermine
One of the oldest and most widely used weight loss drugs. It’s a stimulant that suppresses appetite and boosts energy levels.

How it works: Stimulates the central nervous system
How it’s taken: Daily oral tablet
Average weight loss: 5–10% of body weight
Common side effects: Dry mouth, insomnia, elevated heart rate
Important note: Typically prescribed short-term (12 weeks max)

4. Phentermine/Topiramate (Qsymia)
This combo drug includes phentermine (appetite suppressant) and topiramate (a seizure/migraine medication) that may also reduce cravings.

How it works: Appetite control + satiety + mood stabilization
How it’s taken: Daily pill
Average weight loss: 8–14% of body weight
Common side effects: Tingling, constipation, dizziness, dry mouth

5. Naltrexone/Bupropion (Contrave)
A non-stimulant medication that affects the reward center of the brain and appetite-regulating hormones.

How it works: Reduces cravings and emotional eating
How it’s taken: Daily pill
Average weight loss: 5–10% of body weight
Common side effects: Nausea, headache, anxiety, increased blood pressure

6. Liraglutide (Saxenda)
A daily injectable similar to semaglutide, but taken every day instead of weekly.

How it works: Mimics GLP-1 to reduce appetite
Average weight loss: 8–12% of body weight
Common side effects: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
FDA-approved for weight management in adults and teens

7. Orlistat (Alli/Xenical)
An over-the-counter or prescription option that works in the gut rather than the brain.

How it works: Blocks fat absorption in the intestines
How it’s taken: Pill with each meal
Average weight loss: 3–5% of body weight
Common side effects: Oily stools, gas, abdominal cramping

When to visit urgent care

Urgent care can help if:

You’re experiencing side effects from a weight loss medication
You need help deciding whether to start or stop a medication
You want baseline labs (like blood pressure, glucose, or cholesterol) checked
You’re feeling unwell while on a weight loss plan and need fast evaluation

Urgent care isn’t a replacement for a weight loss clinic, but it can support safe medication use or rule out complications.

Final thought

There’s no one-size-fits-all weight loss medication. The right option depends on your health history, current medications, and personal goals. Always work with a provider to choose the safest and most effective treatment for you.

If symptoms get worse or don’t improve, visit your local urgent care provider for professional evaluation.
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