Exploring Anti-Obesity Medications in Canada?
With obesity rates on the rise nationwide, it’s essential to explore all avenues for effective weight management. In addition to lifestyle modifications such as healthy eating, regular exercise and behaviour changes, pharmaceutical interventions can offer valuable support. In this blog, we’ll take an in-depth look at the range of anti-obesity medications unique to Canada. From their indications and efficacy to potential side effects and mechanisms of action, we aim to provide you with a thorough understanding to aid in your health journey.
Xenical (Orlistat)
What is Orlistat?
Orlistat is an approved weight loss medication in Canada that inhibits pancreatic lipase, an enzyme responsible for breaking down fats.
How does Orlistat Work?
Orlistat functions by blocking the absorption of dietary fat in the intestines, reducing calorie intake, and facilitating weight loss. It is suitable for individuals who need help controlling their fat intake.
Who can use Orlistat?
Orlistat is typically prescribed in Canada for individuals with a BMI greater than 30 or those with a BMI greater than 27 who have obesity-related health problems. It can be prescribed to individuals aged 12 and over.
How to use Orlistat?
Orlistat is taken orally as tablets, usually 30 to 60 minutes before each fat-containing meal.
What is the success rate of Orlistat?
Orlistat leads to modest weight loss, with an average reduction in body weight of 3-5%. Success rates vary, but it can be effective when combined with a reduced-calorie diet and regular physical activity.
What are the common side effects of Orlistat?
Common side effects of Orlistat include gastrointestinal issues such as oily stool, gas, and diarrhea. Proper diet management can help mitigate these side effects.
Saxenda (Liraglutide)
What is Liraglutide?
Liraglutide is an approved weight loss medication in Canada, by the name of Saxenda and belongs to the class of drugs known as GLP-1 receptor agonists. It is also used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes under the brand name Victoza.
How does Liraglutide Work?
Liraglutide works by mimicking the action of a hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), which helps regulate blood sugar levels and appetite. It slows down gastric emptying, leading to a feeling of fullness, and reduces food intake.
Who can use Liraglutide?
Liraglutide is typically prescribed for individuals with a BMI greater than 30 or those with a BMI greater than 27 who have obesity-related health problems. It may also be prescribed for individuals with type 2 diabetes who are looking to manage their weight. It can be used in people above 12 years of age
How to use Liraglutide?
Liraglutide is administered as a once-daily injection under the skin. The dosage may be adjusted based on individual response and tolerability.
What is the success rate of Liraglutide?
Liraglutide has been shown to lead to significant weight loss, with studies reporting an average reduction in body weight of around 5-10% when used in combination with diet and exercise.
What are the common side effects of Liraglutide?
Common side effects of Liraglutide include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation. These side effects usually improve over time as the body adjusts to the medication. However, individuals should consult their healthcare provider if they experience persistent or severe side effects.
Wegovy (Semaglutide)
What is Semaglutide?
Semaglutide is an approved weight loss medication in Canada, by the name of (Wegovy) belonging to the class of drugs known as GLP-1 receptor agonists. It is also used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes under the brand name Ozempic.
How does Semaglutide Work?
Semaglutide works similarly to liraglutide by mimicking the action of the hormone glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1). It regulates blood sugar levels and appetite, slowing gastric emptying to promote a feeling of fullness and reducing food intake. It can be used in people above 18 years of age
Who can use Semaglutide?
Semaglutide is typically prescribed for individuals aged 18 and over with a BMI greater than 30 or those with a BMI greater than 27 who have obesity-related health problems. It may also be prescribed for individuals with type 2 diabetes seeking weight management.
How to use Semaglutide?
Semaglutide is administered as a once-weekly injection under the skin. The dosage may be adjusted based on individual response and tolerability.
What is the success rate of Semaglutide?
Semaglutide has demonstrated significant weight loss benefits, with studies showing an average reduction in body weight ranging from 5-15% when used in conjunction with lifestyle modifications such as diet and exercise.
What are the common side effects of Semaglutide?
Common side effects of Semaglutide include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation. These side effects are usually temporary and diminish over time as the body adjusts to the medication. However, individuals should consult their healthcare provider if they experience persistent or severe side effects.
What is the difference between Liraglutide and Semaglutide?
Semaglutide and Liraglutide are both injectable medications utilized in the treatment of obesity, belonging to the glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist class. They function by regulating appetite and inducing a sensation of fullness, aiding individuals in weight management. Despite their similarities, there are notable distinctions between the two.
Chemical Structure: Liraglutide and semaglutide differ in their chemical makeup, although they both target the GLP-1 receptor to regulate blood sugar levels and appetite.
Dosage Frequency: Liraglutide is typically administered once daily, while semaglutide is available in a convenient once-weekly injection, offering flexibility in treatment.
Weight Loss Efficacy: Clinical trials indicate that semaglutide may yield slightly superior weight loss outcomes compared to liraglutide, making it a promising option for individuals seeking effective weight management solutions.
Contrave(Bupropion and Naltrexone)
What is Contrave?
Contrave is a Health Canada-approved weight loss medication available in Canada. It is a combination of two drugs, bupropion and naltrexone, which work together to reduce appetite and cravings.
How does Contrave Work?
Contrave works by targeting areas in the brain that control appetite and reward pathways. Bupropion helps decrease appetite and food cravings, while naltrexone works to reduce the rewarding effects of food.
Who can use Contrave?
Contrave is generally prescribed for adults aged 18 and above with a BMI exceeding 30, or individuals with a BMI greater than 27 who are experiencing health issues related to obesity. It is particularly suitable for those dealing with concurrent anxiety, depression, and smoking habits, in addition to weight management concerns. Contrave is specifically intended for use in individuals aged 18 and older.
How to take Contrave?
Contrave is administered orally in tablet form, typically taken twice daily. Initially, one tablet is taken per day, preferably in the morning to avoid insomnia. The dosage is then gradually increased each week by one tablet until reaching a maximum of two tablets twice a day.
What is the success rate of Contrave?
Contrave has been shown to lead to modest weight loss, with studies reporting an average reduction in body weight ranging by 5% when used alongside a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity.
What are the common side effects of Contrave?
Common side effects of Contrave include nausea, headache, constipation, dizziness, and dry mouth. These side effects are usually mild and improve over time.
Zepbound or Mounjaro (Tirzapitide)
What is Tizepatide?
Tizepatide, marketed as Mounjaro or Zepbound, is a cutting-edge medication designed to tackle both type 2 diabetes and obesity. This dual agonist activates key hormones, GLP-1 and GIP, crucial for managing blood sugar levels, suppression of appetite, and promoting weight loss.
How does Tizepatide work?
Tizepatide’s mechanism is impressive—it activates GLP-1 and GIP, managing blood sugar, reducing hunger, and inducing a feeling of fullness. It is administered once a week, starting with a small dose and gradually increasing, similar to insulin or semaglutide, to help in better tolerance.
Who can use Tizepatide?
Tizepatide is suitable for individuals dealing with both type 2 diabetes and obesity. It is for 18 years and older individuals.
How to use Tizepatide?
Tizepatide is administered once a week, starting with a small dose and gradually increasing over time to enhance tolerance and efficacy. This regimen mirrors the approach used for insulin or semaglutide. Adhering to prescribed dosing instructions and consulting with a healthcare professional is essential for optimal results and safety
What is the success rate of Tizepatide?
In clinical trials, Tizepatide has demonstrated significant efficacy, with participants experiencing an average weight loss of approximately 25 pounds over the course of 52 weeks. This remarkable outcome underscores its effectiveness in promoting substantial and sustained weight reduction, making it a promising option for individuals seeking to manage type 2 diabetes and obesity.
What are the common side effects of Tizepatide?
Common side effects of Tizepatide may include nausea, vomiting, constipation, heartburn, and abdominal bloating. While these symptoms are generally mild and transient, it’s important to monitor and report any adverse reactions to healthcare providers for proper management and adjustment of treatment if necessary.
Conclusion
Anti-obesity medications available in Canada can provide additional support to individuals struggling with weight management. Liraglutide and Contrave appear to be more practical options. However, Semaglutide and Tirzapitide brands are not yet approved by Health Canada, often leading to back orders and inconsistency in availability for patients. Meanwhile, focusing on behavioral and lifestyle changes remains crucial. Modest Medix, comprised of a team of doctors,dietitians, and health coaches(Obesity Care Educators), offers structured behavioral support alongside anti-obesity medications to achieve sustained, long-lasting weight maintenance and optimal results.
