Beyond GLP-1s: Other Medical Weight Loss Options

Quick answer: GLP-1 medications like semaglutide and tirzepatide are powerful tools, but they're not the only ones. Oral prescription medications — some used successfully for decades — can be used alone or alongside GLP-1s, depending on your goals, medical history, budget, and side effect concerns.

In this article:

• It's Not Just About GLP-1s

• Other Medications Used in Medical Weight Loss

• Why Not Everyone Needs a GLP-1

• How We Choose the Right Plan for You

• Frequently Asked Questions

• Talk to a Nurse — Free Consultation

It's Not Just About GLP-1s

Right now, almost all anyone talks about when it comes to medical weight loss is GLP-1 injections. They've genuinely been game changers for a lot of people — but they're not the only tool available, and they're not the right fit for everyone.

As Board Certified Nurse Practitioners and Certified Specialists in Obesity and Weight Management, we have a lot more in our toolbox than GLP-1 medications alone.

Think of GLP-1s as the superheroes of medical weight loss. They're powerful, effective, and have changed a lot of lives. But every superhero needs sidekicks — and in weight loss, those sidekicks can be just as important to the right plan.

Other Medications Used in Medical Weight Loss

There are several oral prescription medications that have helped people lose weight successfully for years, in some cases decades. Phentermine is probably the most well known, but it's far from the only option.

These medications can be used:

• Alone, for people who aren't ready for or interested in injections

• In combination with other medications, including GLP-1s, depending on your needs

• As a better fit because of cost, side effect tolerance, medical history, or personal goals

The biggest mistake people make is assuming there's only one path to successful weight loss. There isn't. That's exactly why personalized care matters — our job is to find the right tools for your body, not force everyone into the same treatment plan.

Why Not Everyone Needs a GLP-1

One of the first things we do when someone comes to Merit is figure out what's actually getting in their way. Is it hunger? Cravings? Emotional eating? Lack of fullness after meals? Stress?

Once we understand the real problem, we can talk about real solutions — and sometimes that solution is a GLP-1. Sometimes it's not.

Weight loss isn't one-size-fits-all, and it shouldn't be treated that way. Two women can walk into our office with the exact same goal — losing 40 pounds — and walk out with two completely different plans, because they're different people with different bodies, different struggles, and different lifestyles.

If you've assumed medical weight loss isn't for you because you're not interested in injections, don't count yourself out. You may have more options than you realize.

How We Choose the Right Plan for You

The best treatment plan isn't the newest medication on the market. It's the medication — or combination of medications — that actually fits the person in front of us.

We take into account:

• Your goals and timeline

• Your medical history

• Your budget

• Your side effect tolerance and concerns

• How your body responds once treatment starts (this is why protein, hydration, and follow-up matter no matter which medication you're on.

At Merit, we don't just prescribe medications. We build personalized weight loss plans designed to help women lose weight and keep it off for life.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are oral weight loss medications as effective as GLP-1 injections? Effectiveness varies by individual and by medication. For some people, oral medications work very well; for others, GLP-1s or a combination approach is more effective. This is a conversation to have with your provider based on your specific situation.

Can I combine a GLP-1 with another weight loss medication? Yes, in some cases. Combination treatment is sometimes used to address different aspects of weight management — for example, hunger versus cravings versus metabolism.

Is phentermine safe long-term? Phentermine has been used for decades and is generally well tolerated for many people, though it's not appropriate for everyone (such as those with certain heart conditions or high blood pressure). A provider can help determine if it's right for you.

How do I know which medication is right for me? Rather than asking "which medication is best," the better question is "which medication is best for me." That answer depends on your goals, history, and how your body responds — which is exactly what a consultation is for.

Do I have to choose between a GLP-1 and other options? Not necessarily. Some people start with one approach and adjust over time, and some use a combination from the start, depending on what their provider recommends.

Have Questions? Let’s Talk.

Your free introductory phone call is a chance to speak with a member of our team, learn more about the Merit Method, and get answers to your questions.

We’ll talk about what you’ve been struggling with, what you’re hoping to achieve, and whether Merit may be the right fit for you.

There’s no pressure and no commitment—just a helpful conversation so you can feel confident about your next step.