Anti-Obesity Medication Program
The ARC Anti-Obesity Medication Program is currently at capacity, and we are currently unable to accept new patients. We are diligently working to increase availability and will notify patients as soon as new patient spots become available. We apologize for this interruption in services and appreciate your patience as we work to expand availability.
For patients interested in an alternative weight-loss program, the Optifast Meal Replacement Program is accepting new patients.
ARC's Anti-Obesity Medication Program is available for patients ages 18 to 70 with a BMI of 27+. The program is medically supervised and includes monthly follow-ups with a physician or advanced practice clinician (APC) and a weekly health guide check-in. We combine cutting-edge medications with expert guidance to create a customized plan that addresses your unique needs.
Anti-obesity medication may promote weight loss by decreasing hunger, appetite, and cravings, increasing satiety, blocking fat absorption, or mitigating biological or genetic factors. When used along with a healthy diet and exercise routine, these medications can help promote and maintain weight loss.
Patients must receive medical clearance from a Healthiness physician or APC before starting the program. Additionally, you have the option to combine this service with meal replacement services provided by the ARC Healthiness Program. Please call 512-483-9595 to schedule your Healthiness Program appointment.
Appropriate weight-loss medications for you
You may be a candidate for FDA approved and/or off label weight-loss prescriptions if you've faced weight-loss challenges. The regimen your clinician prescribes will depend on your medical history, biology, and insurance coverage.
Common anti-obesity medications offered include, but are not limited to:
- Contrave
- Metformin
- Orlistat
- Phendimetrazine
- Phentermine
- Plenity
- Qsymia
- Saxenda
- Setmelanotide
- Tenuate
- Topiramate
- Wegovy (Semaglutide)
- Zepbound (Tirzepatide)
*Prescription coverage varies by plan.
Anti-Obesity Medication Program pricing
Cost and fee information for the Anti-Obesity Medication Program at ARC:
- Annual fee - $300 due at first visit, covers weekly visits with a health guide for one year
- Medical services with physician/ NP, including labs/EKG - billed to your insurance plan and subject to your policy copays, deductibles, etc
- Cost of anti-obesity medication - dependent on your prescription coverage
FAQs
How much weight can you lose with prescription weight-loss medication?
Studies indicate that individuals can achieve significant weight loss when participating in a prescribed weight-loss program. Outcomes may be influenced by initial weight, overall health, and the commitment to maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Is prescription weight loss permanent?
Prescriptions for weight loss should be considered as a complement to a healthy lifestyle rather than a quick and permanent solution to obesity. Individuals may experience weight regain after discontinuing weight-loss medications, but sustaining a healthier weight can often be achieved through ongoing healthy eating habits and regular exercise.
Obesity is recognized as a chronic condition. If deemed safe by your physician or APC and desired by the patient, certain prescriptions may be employed for long-term weight maintenance.
What are the side effects of weight-loss prescriptions?
Side effects associated with each weight-loss medication differ. Common side effects of weight-loss medications include:
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Difficulty sleeping
- Dizziness
- Elevated heart rate
- Fatigue
- Headaches
- High blood pressure
- Nausea
- Vomiting
How do I join this program?
Patients must receive medical clearance from a Healthiness physician or APC before starting the program. Additionally, you have the option to combine this service with meal replacement services provided by the ARC Healthiness Program. Please call 512-483-9595 to schedule your Healthiness Program appointment.
Services
- Anti-Obesity Prescriptions
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Anti-Obesity Prescriptions
Review of your health history and physical exam to determine safe and appropriate prescription for your health and weight-loss goals.
- Genetic Testing for Monogenic Obesity
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Genetic Testing for Monogenic Obesity
This advanced service is designed for individuals with a BMI over 40 and a history of childhood obesity. Genetic testing aims to uncover underlying genetic factors contributing to obesity, enabling a more personalized and targeted approach to treatment.
- Weight Loss Counseling
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Weight Loss Counseling
Beyond prescribing effective medications, we prioritize holistic wellness and offer nutritional guidance. Your team provides insights into calorie or carbohydrate counting based on your basal metabolic rate, empowering you with the knowledge and tools to make informed and sustainable dietary choices.