Medication as Part of a Comprehensive Plan

For appropriate candidates, FDA-approved medications can be a meaningful tool in the treatment of obesity and metabolic disease. Medication is always considered alongside — not instead of — nutrition, movement, and behavioral support.

GLP-1 Receptor Agonists

Semaglutide — Injectable (Ozempic / Wegovy)

Manufacturer: Novo Nordisk

A once-weekly injectable GLP-1 agonist. Ozempic is FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes management; Wegovy is approved specifically for chronic weight management in adults with obesity or overweight with a related condition.

Semaglutide — Oral (Rybelsus)

Manufacturer: Novo Nordisk

The first oral GLP-1 receptor agonist, taken once daily by tablet. FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes management, offering an injectable-free option for patients who prefer or require oral administration.

Liraglutide (Victoza / Saxenda)

Manufacturer: Novo Nordisk

A once-daily injectable GLP-1 agonist. Victoza is approved for type 2 diabetes; Saxenda is approved for chronic weight management. One of the longer-established options in this medication class.

Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound)

Manufacturer: Eli Lilly

A once-weekly injectable dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist. Mounjaro is FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes; Zepbound is approved for chronic weight management and has shown significant efficacy in clinical trials.

Dulaglutide (Trulicity)

Manufacturer: Eli Lilly

A once-weekly injectable GLP-1 agonist approved for type 2 diabetes management. Also associated with cardiovascular risk reduction in adults with established cardiovascular disease.

Exenatide (Byetta / Bydureon)

Manufacturers: Eli Lilly and AstraZeneca

One of the first GLP-1 receptor agonists approved for type 2 diabetes. Available in twice-daily and once-weekly extended-release forms.

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Orforglipron - oral (Foundayo)

Manufacturer: Eli Lilly

A once-daily oral GLP-1 receptor agonist approved for chronic weight management in adults with obesity or overweight with at least one weight-related condition. Unlike some oral medications in this class, Orforglipron does not require strict meal timing or water restrictions, offering a more flexible and convenient option for appropriate patients seeking a non-injectable treatment approach.

Other FDA-Approved Weight Management Medications

Phentermine (Adipex-P / Lomaira)

Manufacturer: Generic / Multiple manufacturers

A sympathomimetic amine approved for short-term use as an adjunct to diet and exercise in the treatment of obesity. One of the most widely prescribed weight management medications in the United States, it works by suppressing appetite through the central nervous system. Phentermine is a controlled substance and is prescribed only after a thorough medical and cardiovascular evaluation.