Pharmacist Reveals 4 Weight Loss Medications That Cost 80% Less Than Ozempic
The conversation around weight loss medications has become more open than ever. If you're exploring alternatives to expensive GLP-1 medications like Ozempic or feeling hesitant about injections, you're not alone. Read on to discover proven, affordable options that could help you achieve your weight loss goals. Stacia Woodcock, PharmD, a pharmacy editor at GoodRx with extensive experience in diabetes care and medication management, shares effective alternatives that might work better for your lifestyle and budget.
Try Metformin First
"Metformin has been used for weight loss for quite some time," Stacia says in the post. While not officially approved for weight loss, it's particularly helpful for people with type 2 diabetes or polycystic ovarian syndrome who struggle with weight management.
Know the Long-Term Benefits
Dr. Robert H. Shmerling, Senior Faculty Editor at Harvard Health Publishing, explains: "Metformin has become the most widely prescribed medication for people with diabetes who cannot control their blood sugar through diet and exercise alone." He adds: "It's relatively inexpensive and its potential side effects are well understood."
Check Extra Health Benefits
"For decades we've known that metformin does more than just help lower blood sugar," notes Dr. Shmerling. "It also offers cardiovascular benefits and sometimes helps people with diabetes lose excess weight." Research suggests it may even help prevent diabetes among people with prediabetes.
Consider Contrave
"Contrave combines naltrexone and bupropion to help reduce cravings and appetite while boosting mood," Stacia explains. Since depression often correlates with weight gain, this dual-action medication offers a comprehensive approach.
How Contrave Works
According to the American Association of Clinical Endocrinology: "Contrave works in the brain as an appetite suppressant and is meant to be used together with a lifestyle therapy regimen involving a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity." The organization notes that it's specifically designed for people with weight-related health complications.
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See If It's Right for You
The medication provides a unique dual approach, helping with both emotional eating and appetite control. AACE emphasizes that "the medication should be slowly increased over time to minimize side effects," allowing your body to adjust gradually.
Try Phentermine for Quick Results
"Phentermine, known by the brand name Adipex-P, is an effective short-term option," notes Stacia. This medication works by reducing cravings, though it's designed for temporary use only. WebMD adds that it's particularly effective when combined with behavioral changes.
What to Expect
According to WebMD, phentermine works by "decreasing your appetite, increasing the amount of energy used by your body, or by affecting certain parts of the brain." The medication can help jumpstart your weight loss journey when other methods haven't worked.
Look Into Qsymia
Stacia points out that "Qsymia combines phentermine with topiramate, originally a seizure medication. This combination effectively reduces appetite and curbs cravings." WebMD notes that this combination can be particularly effective for long-term weight management.
Understanding Qsymia
"Qsymia contains two medicines that may work together by reducing appetite and helping you feel full," WebMD explains. The medication has shown significant results in clinical trials, especially for those with weight-related health conditions.
Save Money Now
"These oral medications are much more likely to be covered by your insurance than newer GLP-1 agonists," Stacia emphasizes. She recommends consulting your healthcare provider to explore which option might be right for you, noting that many patients save significantly compared to newer injectable medications. And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss 20 Incredible Ozempic Success Stories of All Time.
