Let's be real—losing weight and keeping it off can feel like an uphill battle. If you've been struggling despite your best efforts, you're not alone. For some people, prescription weight-loss medications prescribed by licensed healthcare providers can offer extra support to help reach their health goals.

On this page, you'll see programs that may offer either FDA-approved brand-name medications or compounded prescriptions prepared by licensed, FDA-regulated pharmacies. The right choice depends on your goals, medical history, availability, and budget.

The Health Benefits Beyond the Scale

Weight management goes way beyond fitting into your favorite jeans—it's about protecting your long-term health. Carrying excess weight can increase your risk for conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease. Prescription weight-loss medications are designed to support the body's natural systems, helping regulate appetite and metabolism in ways that diet and exercise alone sometimes can't.

That said, these treatments aren't for everyone and should never be used without medical guidance. A licensed healthcare provider must evaluate whether medication is appropriate and help determine the most suitable approach for your situation.

How These Treatments Support Your Weight Loss Goals

When prescribed and monitored by a healthcare provider, weight-loss medications may offer benefits such as:

Appetite regulation: Many treatments influence hormones related to hunger and fullness, making it easier to manage portions and reduce cravings.

Improved metabolic response: Some medications can improve the way your body handles blood sugar and how it stores and uses energy.

Support for lifestyle changes: Medication works best as a complement to healthier habits, helping consistent nutrition and movement efforts feel more manageable.

Responses can vary from person to person. Sustainable progress typically comes from a combination of medical support, patience, and long-term behavior changes.

Important Safety Information and Side Effects

As with any prescription medication, side effects are possible. Commonly reported effects may include:

• Nausea
• Headaches
• Digestive discomfort
• Injection-site soreness (for injectable options)
• Dizziness or lightheadedness

Most side effects are mild and temporary, but more serious reactions can occur. Ongoing medical supervision and clear communication with your provider are essential throughout treatment.

Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, Zepbound, and Compounded Versions: What's the Difference?

If you're researching GLP-1 medications, the names can get confusing fast. Here's a simple breakdown of the most common terms you’ll see.

Ozempic®: Ozempic is a brand-name medication containing semaglutide. It is FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes. Weight loss is a common effect, but using Ozempic specifically for weight management is considered off-label and should be discussed with a provider.

Wegovy®: Wegovy is also semaglutide, but it is FDA-approved specifically for chronic weight management in adults who meet certain criteria. Many people searching “Ozempic for weight loss” are actually looking for a program that can prescribe an FDA-approved weight-loss option like Wegovy when appropriate.

Mounjaro®: Mounjaro is a brand-name medication containing tirzepatide. It is FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes. Some providers may prescribe it off-label for weight management depending on individual circumstances.

Zepbound®: Zepbound is tirzepatide that is FDA-approved specifically for chronic weight management. If a program offers Zepbound, it may be positioned as a brand-name, FDA-approved weight-loss option under provider supervision.

Compounded semaglutide or tirzepatide: Some programs provide compounded versions of semaglutide or tirzepatide prepared by licensed, FDA-regulated pharmacies. These compounded formulations are legally prescribed and may be selected for accessibility or affordability. However, compounded versions are not the same as FDA-approved brand-name drugs, and your provider should explain exactly what you’re receiving and why.

What this means for you: Brand-name options can be the best fit for some people, while compounded options can be a practical alternative for others. A licensed provider can help you choose the safest, most appropriate path based on your health profile and goals.

Taking the First Step: Working With Your Healthcare Provider

Weight loss is highly individual, and no single solution works for everyone. Prescription medications—whether brand-name or compounded—may be a helpful tool when paired with provider-guided nutrition, regular activity, and sustainable lifestyle habits.

If you're exploring prescription weight-management options, start by speaking with a licensed healthcare provider through one of the programs listed above. They can help assess your eligibility, explain available approaches, and guide you toward a plan that aligns with your health goals and budget.