GLP-1-based medications have changed the conversation around medical weight management, but they are not automatically appropriate for everyone. The decision to use a prescription weight-loss medication should be based on a medical evaluation, not simply on interest in a specific drug.
At Medical Weight Loss and Beauty, James Kojian, M.D. evaluates each patient individually. That evaluation may include current weight and weight history, prior weight-loss efforts, medical conditions, medications, treatment goals, and factors that could affect the safety or appropriateness of a particular therapy.
Who May Be Considered for Prescription Weight Management?
FDA-approved chronic weight-management medications have specific indications. For example, some approved GLP-1-based treatments are indicated for adults with obesity, or for adults with overweight who also have at least one weight-related medical condition. Whether a particular patient meets the criteria for a specific medication still requires an individualized medical assessment.
A consultation may be appropriate for people who have struggled to achieve or maintain meaningful weight loss through lifestyle changes alone, have weight-related health concerns, or want to understand whether prescription treatment may be appropriate for them.
Why the Medical Evaluation Matters
Prescription weight-loss medications can have side effects, precautions, contraindications, and medication interactions. The right treatment also depends on the patient’s goals, medical history, and ability to follow the recommended plan. That is why a physician should determine candidacy and discuss the potential benefits and risks before treatment begins.
What Happens at a Medical Weight Loss Consultation?
A consultation is an opportunity to review your history, discuss what has and has not worked in the past, talk through available options, and develop a plan that fits your needs. If medication is appropriate, the physician can explain how it is used, what side effects to watch for, what follow-up may be needed, and what realistic expectations look like.
If you are in Pasadena or Glendale and want to learn whether medical weight-loss treatment may be appropriate for you, schedule a consultation with Medical Weight Loss and Beauty.