Appetite Suppressants: How They Work and Their Role in Weight Management
Maintaining a healthy weight is a challenge for many individuals, especially when cravings and hunger pangs make it difficult to stick to a balanced diet. At Healthy Habits Wellness Clinic, we understand the struggles of weight management and offer a variety of medical solutions, including appetite suppressants, to help patients achieve their wellness goals.
But what exactly are appetite suppressants, and how do they fit into a healthy weight loss plan? In this blog, we’ll dive into the science behind appetite suppressants, their benefits, potential risks, and how they can be used as a tool for long-term weight management.
What Are Appetite Suppressants?
Appetite suppressants are medications or supplements designed to curb hunger and reduce cravings, helping individuals consume fewer calories and support weight loss. They work by affecting the brain’s hunger signals, often by increasing neurotransmitters that control appetite, such as serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine.
There are two main types of appetite suppressants:
- Prescription appetite suppressants – FDA-approved medications that require a doctor’s prescription.
- Natural appetite suppressants – Over-the-counter supplements containing ingredients like fiber, green tea extract, and caffeine, which may help reduce hunger naturally.
At Healthy Habits Wellness Clinic, we provide medically supervised appetite suppressant programs to ensure safety and effectiveness while tailoring treatment to each patient’s unique needs.
How Do Appetite Suppressants Work?
Most prescription appetite suppressants work by targeting the central nervous system, tricking the brain into feeling full for longer periods. This leads to:
✅ Reduced calorie intake
✅ Fewer cravings for unhealthy foods
✅ Increased satiety (feeling of fullness) after smaller meals
✅ A gradual and sustainable approach to weight loss
Commonly Prescribed Appetite Suppressants
Some of the most common prescription appetite suppressants include:
- Phentermine (Adipex-P, Lomaira) – A stimulant that affects appetite-regulating neurotransmitters.
- Diethylpropion – Works similarly to phentermine but has a shorter duration of action.
- Liraglutide (Saxenda) – A GLP-1 receptor agonist that slows digestion and increases feelings of fullness.
- Bupropion-Naltrexone (Contrave) – A combination medication that helps control appetite and food cravings.
Tirzepatide: A Game-Changer in Weight Loss
Tirzepatide (brand name: Mounjaro) is a newer medication showing promising results in weight loss. Originally developed for type 2 diabetes, it mimics two natural hormones—GLP-1 and GIP—to reduce appetite, slow digestion, and improve blood sugar control.
Tirzepatide has been associated with significant weight loss, even in individuals without diabetes. Patients can lose up to 20% of their body weight when combined with lifestyle changes, making it a powerful option for those struggling with obesity.
At Healthy Habits Wellness Clinic, we may recommend tirzepatide for patients who meet specific criteria and are looking for a long-term solution to weight management.
HCG (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin): Supporting Metabolism During Calorie Deficit
Another approach we may incorporate is the HCG protocol, which uses human chorionic gonadotropin—a hormone naturally produced during pregnancy—to support weight loss. When paired with a low-calorie diet, HCG is believed to:
- Help preserve lean muscle mass
- Support metabolism
- Reduce feelings of hunger during calorie restriction
Although HCG for weight loss is considered controversial and not FDA-approved for this purpose, some patients find it effective when used under close medical supervision as part of a personalized plan.
Our team at Healthy Habits Wellness Clinic monitors all patients carefully to ensure safety and optimal results when considering HCG as a weight loss adjunct.
Are Appetite Suppressants Safe?
When used under medical supervision, prescription appetite suppressants can be a safe and effective way to support weight loss. However, they aren’t suitable for everyone. Some potential side effects include:
- Increased heart rate or blood pressure
- Insomnia or restlessness
- Dry mouth
- Nausea or digestive issues
- Mood changes or anxiety
Our experienced providers carefully assess each patient’s health history to determine the safest treatment options, including whether tirzepatide or HCG may be appropriate.
Who Can Benefit from Appetite Suppressants?
Appetite suppressants, including tirzepatide and other prescription options, are typically recommended for individuals who:
- Have a BMI of 30 or higher (obese)
- Have a BMI of 27 or higher with weight-related health conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure
- Need medical support after struggling with diet and exercise alone
They are not recommended for:
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women
- Individuals with certain cardiovascular conditions
- People with a history of eating disorders or severe mental health concerns
How to Use Appetite Suppressants Effectively
To get the best results, appetite suppressants should be used as part of a comprehensive weight loss plan, which includes:
✅ Healthy eating – Focus on nutrient-dense, whole foods
✅ Regular exercise – Aim for 150+ minutes of activity weekly
✅ Behavioral changes – Practice portion control and stress management
✅ Medical supervision – Regular follow-ups to monitor progress and adjust the plan
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Do appetite suppressants help with emotional eating?
They may reduce physical hunger but don’t directly treat emotional eating. Behavioral support is essential. - Can I stop taking appetite suppressants once I reach my goal weight?
Yes, but maintaining healthy habits is key to keeping the weight off. - Are appetite suppressants addictive?
Stimulant-based suppressants like phentermine can be habit-forming, but are safe when used under supervision. - How fast can I lose weight with appetite suppressants?
Most patients lose 5-10% of their body weight in a few months. Tirzepatide may lead to even greater weight loss over time. - Can I take appetite suppressants with other medications?
Our team will evaluate potential interactions to ensure safety. - Will I gain weight after stopping appetite suppressants?
Lifestyle changes are key to long-term success. Our clinic offers continued support. - What is tirzepatide, and how is it different from other medications?
Tirzepatide is a dual-action hormone therapy that improves satiety and blood sugar regulation. It often leads to more substantial weight loss than older medications. - Is HCG safe for weight loss?
HCG is not FDA-approved for weight loss, but under professional guidance, it may help support metabolism and hunger control in select patients.
Start Your Weight Loss Journey with Healthy Habits Wellness Clinic
At Healthy Habits Wellness Clinic, we are dedicated to helping you achieve sustainable weight loss through medically supervised programs tailored to your unique needs. Whether you’re considering traditional appetite suppressants, innovative treatments like tirzepatide, or structured protocols like HCG, our team will guide you every step of the way.
📍 Location:
Healthy Habits Wellness Clinic
14 S Baltic Pl
Meridian, ID 83642
📞 Call us today: (208) 887-4872
🔗 Visit our website to schedule a consultation!
Take control of your health and discover how appetite suppressants—and innovative therapies like tirzepatide and HCG—can be powerful tools in your weight loss journey!