Losing weight through diet and exercise alone doesn't work for everyone. When lifestyle changes aren't enough, many people in the Philippines turn to medical help for weight management.
The Philippines has four FDA-approved prescription weight loss medications: phentermine, phentermine combined with topiramate, liraglutide, and orlistat, with newer options like semaglutide also becoming available through medical weight loss programs. These medications work in different ways, from reducing appetite to blocking fat absorption. They are typically prescribed for people with a BMI of 30 or higher, or a BMI of 27 or higher with weight-related health conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure.
Choosing the right medication depends on a person's health status, weight loss goals, and how their body responds to treatment. Each option has different benefits and side effects, and all work best when combined with healthy eating and regular physical activity.
Understanding Prescription Weight Loss Treatments
Prescription medications for weight management work through different mechanisms in the body, require medical evaluation before use, and include advanced options like GLP-1 and GIP receptor agonists that regulate hunger hormones.
How Prescription Weight Loss Medications Work
Prescription weight loss medications operate through several key mechanisms to support weight loss. Some reduce appetite by affecting brain signals that control hunger. Others slow down stomach emptying, which helps people feel full longer after eating.
Certain medications block fat absorption in the digestive system. They prevent the body from absorbing about 30% of dietary fat, which passes through the digestive tract unabsorbed. Another category increases metabolism or changes how the body processes blood sugar levels.
Common mechanisms include:
- Appetite suppression - reducing hunger signals
- Delayed gastric emptying - keeping food in the stomach longer
- Fat absorption blocking - preventing dietary fat uptake
- Metabolic changes - affecting calorie burning and blood sugar regulation
These medications work best when combined with healthy eating and regular physical activity for sustainable weight loss.
Eligibility and Doctor Consultation
Weight loss medications are prescribed for specific individuals who meet certain medical criteria. Doctors typically recommend them for people with a body mass index of 30 or higher. They may also prescribe them for those with a BMI of 27 or higher who have weight-related health conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure.
A doctor consultation is required before starting any prescription weight loss treatment. During the evaluation, healthcare providers review medical history, current medications, and weight loss goals. They assess whether prescription medications are appropriate and safe.
Eligibility factors include:
- BMI of 30 or above
- BMI of 27 or above with related health conditions
- Previous unsuccessful attempts at weight loss through diet and exercise alone
- No contraindications or medication conflicts
Online consultation and teleconsultation options now make it easier for patients to access medical advice about weight management options without visiting a clinic in person.
GLP-1 and GIP Receptor Agonists Explained
GLP-1 receptor agonists are among the most effective prescription options available for weight management. These medications mimic natural hormones that regulate appetite and blood sugar. They delay stomach emptying and reduce food cravings throughout the day.
Popular GLP-1 medications include:
- Ozempic (Semaglutide) - originally for diabetes, now used for weight loss
- Wegovy (Higher-dose Semaglutide) - specifically approved for weight management
- Saxenda (Liraglutide) - also approved for weight loss treatment
Research shows that people taking semaglutide lost an average of 15% of their body weight over 68 weeks. These medications are administered through injections, typically once weekly.
GIP receptor agonist medications work similarly but target different hormone pathways. Some newer treatments combine both GLP-1 and GIP mechanisms for enhanced results. Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, and reduced appetite, especially during the first few weeks of treatment.
Types of Prescription Weight Loss Medications Available in the Philippines
The Philippines has several FDA-approved prescription medications that help with weight management, including fat absorption blockers and newer hormone-based treatments. These medications work through different mechanisms and require medical supervision for safe use.
Orlistat and Alli
Orlistat stands as the most widely available weight loss medication in the Philippines. It works by blocking about 30% of fat absorption in the digestive system. The prescription strength comes as 120mg capsules, while Alli offers a lower 60mg over-the-counter version.
This medication requires taking capsules three times daily with meals that contain fat. Common side effects include oily stools, gas, and urgent bowel movements, especially when eating high-fat foods.
Orlistat works best when combined with a reduced-calorie diet. People typically need to take a multivitamin supplement at bedtime because the medication can reduce absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.
GLP-1 Medications: Semaglutide (Ozempic/Wegovy), Liraglutide (Saxenda)
GLP-1 receptor agonist medications mimic a natural hormone that regulates appetite and blood sugar. Liraglutide is one of the FDA-approved options in the country. Saxenda contains liraglutide as a daily injection for weight management.
Semaglutide comes in two forms: Ozempic for diabetes treatment and Wegovy specifically for weight loss. Both require weekly injections under the skin.
These medications slow stomach emptying and reduce hunger signals to the brain. Studies show they can help people lose 5-10% or more of their body weight when combined with lifestyle changes.
Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, which often decrease over time. Doctors typically start patients on lower doses and gradually increase them to reduce digestive issues.
Dual Incretin Agonists: Tirzepatide
Tirzepatide represents a newer class of medication that acts as both a GIP receptor agonist and a GLP-1 receptor agonist. Prescription weight loss treatments in the Philippines now include tirzepatide through specialized medical weight loss programs.
This dual action may provide stronger weight loss results compared to GLP-1 medications alone. Clinical studies suggest significant weight reduction when combined with diet and exercise changes.
The medication comes as a weekly injection. Patients need medical monitoring throughout treatment to track progress and manage any side effects.
Like GLP-1 medications, tirzepatide can cause digestive symptoms. Healthcare providers adjust dosing based on individual tolerance and response.
Access and Safety Considerations
Weight loss medications in the Philippines require a doctor's prescription and medical evaluation. Prescription weight loss treatments can lead to an additional 5-10% weight loss compared to lifestyle changes alone.
Many clinics now offer teleconsultation services for weight management, making it easier to access medical guidance. Patients can often receive online consultation, prescription approval, and medication delivery through licensed providers.
Important safety factors include:
- Complete medical history review
- Regular monitoring of side effects
- Evaluation of current medications for interactions
- Assessment of weight-related health conditions
- Discussion of realistic weight loss goals
Not everyone qualifies for prescription weight loss medication. Doctors typically recommend them for people with a BMI over 30, or over 27 with weight-related health problems like diabetes or high blood pressure.
