Theres a lot of hype and excitement around GLP-1 and like medications, Youssef
In a recent study, researchers investigated whether starting a glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1 RA), like Ozempic or Wegovy, is associated with lower seizure recurrence and related outcomes in adults with both epilepsy and type 2 diabetes
Phentermine A prescription stimulant that suppresses appetite and slightly boosts metabolism Often used short-term, but studies support longer use in some low-risk patients Average weight loss: ~6% Side effects: dry mouth, jitteriness, insomnia, increased heart rate Not suitable for those with heart conditions or high blood pressure Orlistat (Alli, Xenical) Blocks absorption of about 30% of dietary fat Must be taken 3x daily with meals Average weight loss: ~35% over a year Side effects: oily stools, gas, urgent bowel movements Requires a multivitamin to replace lost fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) Qsymia Combines phentermine with topiramate (originally for seizures/migraines) Targets multiple pathways: appetite + cravings Average weight loss: ~910% Side effects: dry mouth, mood changes, tingling, insomnia Women of childbearing age need reliable contraception Contrave Combines bupropion (an antidepressant) with naltrexone (used for addiction) Helps reduce emotional eating and cravings Average weight loss: ~59% Side effects: nausea, insomnia, headache, dry mouth Not for use if you have seizures, are on opioids, or have certain mental health conditions The New Era: GLP-1s, Dual, and Triple Agonists More recently, medications that target gut and brain hormones have made significant waves in obesity care
Clinicians and patients should also be aware that rapid, large reductions in HbA1c as may occur with potent glucose-lowering therapies can occasionally be associated with transient worsening of diabetic retinopathy
Your body naturally contains more glycine and glutamine, but cysteine can be in short supply
Unlike injectable versions that enter circulation directly, oral capsules rely on advanced delivery systems to maintain efficacy
