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Health Guide / Weight management

5 FDA-approved weight loss pills and medications for long-term treatment

Mike Bohl, MD, MPH, ALMchimene richa

Reviewed by Mike Bohl, MD, MPH, ALM, written by Chimene Richa, MD

Last updated: Feb 17, 2023
9 min read

table of contents

  1. What are weight loss pills?
  2. Who is eligible for weight loss pills? 
  3. How well do weight loss medications work?
  4. How long do I need to take weight loss medication?
  5. Semaglutide (brand name Wegovy)
  6. Phentermine/topiramate (brand name Qsymia)
  7. Liraglutide (brand name Saxenda)
  8. Naltrexone/bupropion (brand name Contrave)
  9. Orlistat (brand names Xenical, Alli)
  10. Do weight loss pills replace diet and exercise? 

Contrary to what popular culture might teach you, you cannot identify obesity in yourself or others simply by observation–obesity is a chronic medical condition that affects millions of people worldwide. And while BMI is not the be-all and end-all assessment of obesity (it’s not without its problems), more than 73% of adults over the age of 20 have measurements in the overweight or obese range in the United States—that’s more than two out of every three adults. For some people, diet and exercise are not enough. Continue reading to learn more about FDA-approved weight loss pills and medications that can help you lose weight and keep it off in a safe way. 

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What are weight loss pills?

There are many different types of weight loss pills, also referred to as weight loss medications or anti-obesity medications. These pills work in different ways, including:

  • Suppressing your appetite (decreasing your desire to eat) 
  • Reducing how much fat you absorb from the foods you eat
  • Making you feel full faster

Weight loss medication is not for everyone–people who are pregnant, trying to become pregnant, or breastfeeding should not use weight loss medication (but more on who is eligible for weight loss pills later). 

Who is eligible for weight loss pills? 

Weight management medications are meant for adults over 18 years old with the following:

Wegovy (see Important Safety Information), a prescription weight loss medication, is available to children over 12 years old with either: 

  • Obesity: body mass index (BMI) of 30 kg/m2 or greater 
  • Overweight: BMI of 27 kg/m2 or greater with at least one weight-related medical condition, such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure (hypertension), or high cholesterol

The easiest way to determine your weight category is to measure your Body Mass Index (BMI). BMI is a measurement of your body weight in kilograms (1 kilogram equals 2.2 pounds) divided by your height in meters squared (1 meter equals ~3 feet 3 inches). You can easily calculate your BMI by clicking here. Using your BMI, you can determine which of the following categories applies to you:

If your BMI is higher than 25, you have an increased risk of several health conditions, including heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and severe COVID-19. Losing as little as 5–10% of the excess weight can significantly improve your health. Weight loss medications, in addition to diet, exercise, and lifestyle modifications, are appropriate for some people to help with their weight loss goals. 

It’s important to keep in mind that BMI does not account for factors like sex, body composition, and more. Additionally, research to support BMI as an assessment tool lacks racial and ethnic diversity.

How well do weight loss medications work?

Unfortunately, there is no magic pill to cure obesity. However, GLP-1 agonists, a class of drugs used to treat diabetes and manage weight, are proven to be highly effective weight management medications. GLP-1 agonists include:

GLP-1 drugs work by mimicking the hormone GLP-1, which sends signals to your brain letting it know when you are full, therefore decreasing your appetite and helping you to feel full faster. These weight loss pills also slow down the process of gastric emptying, when food inside the stomach moves into the small intestine during digestion.

In clinical trials, Wegovy (active ingredient semaglutide) was shown to help adults with a BMI higher than 30 decrease their body weight by up to 15%. While weight loss results will vary based on the type of GLP-1 drug prescribed, dosage, and other lifestyle and health factors, they have been proven to be very effective at helping people lose weight and maintain weight loss.

How long do I need to take weight loss medication?

How long you need to continue to take your weight loss medication depends on a number of factors and will vary from person to person. Depending on the side effects you experience and the success of your weight loss, your healthcare provider may need to adjust your dosage. Unfortunately, this means you might experience a trial and error period before seeing results. 

If your weight loss is successful and you don’t experience negative side effects, your healthcare provider may recommend continuing to take your weight loss medication long term to help you keep the weight off. If you take your medication as prescribed and aren’t seeing results, your healthcare provider may prescribe you a different weight loss pill.

That said, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved certain weight loss medications for short-term and long-term use. Continue reading to learn more.

Short-term weight loss pills

The FDA has approved four medications for short-term use (up to 12 weeks) to help achieve weight loss: 

These drugs are all stimulants that work by making you feel full faster so that you eat less. Some of these medications are Schedule IV, meaning that they have a higher potential for drug abuse. Potential side effects of these short-term weight loss pills include increased heart rate, high blood pressure, trouble sleeping (insomnia), dry mouth, constipation, and nervousness.

People with heart disease, poorly controlled high blood pressure, or a history of addiction or drug abuse should not use these medications. Never take weight loss pills if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. 

Long-term weight loss pills and medications

Given all of the risks of the short-term weight-loss drugs, most healthcare providers turn to treatments approved for longer time frames. There are currently five medications approved by the FDA for the long-term treatment of weight loss:

  • Phentermine/topiramate (Qsymia)
  • Liraglutide (Saxenda)
  • Semaglutide (Wegovy)
  • Naltrexone/bupropion (Contrave)
  • Orlistat (Xenical, Alli) 

These five drugs are all considered effective at helping people achieve at least 5% weight loss after using them for one year.  

Lorcaserin (brand name Belviq), a previously approved weight loss drug, has recently been withdrawn from the U.S. market. The FDA asked the manufacturing company, Eisai Inc., to voluntarily recall lorcaserin because of an increased cancer occurrence.

Continue reading to learn more about specific weight loss pills. 

Semaglutide (brand name Wegovy)

Semaglutide is a GLP-1 agonist and injectable drug used to treat diabetes. While there is an oral pill, only the injectable form is FDA-approved to treat obesity. As mentioned, semaglutide is extremely effective for weight management. Clinical trials showed that Wegovy was able to help adults with a BMI higher than 30 decrease their body weight by up to 15%. This drug also helped improve blood pressure and cholesterol measurements.

Common side effects include mild to moderate nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation, which are usually temporary. As with any medication used to treat diabetes, low blood sugar is a potential side effect.

Ro’s Body Program will connect you to a US-licensed healthcare professional who can discuss whether using a medication like Wegovy to lose weight is right for you. 

Phentermine/topiramate (brand name Qsymia)

Phentermine/topiramate is a combination of phentermine and the anti-seizure drug topiramate; using both drugs together works better than either drug alone to reduce appetite. Because of the potential for abuse, it is considered a scheduled drug by the DEA. You should avoid using phentermine/topiramate if you have high blood pressure or coronary heart disease. Side effects include dry mouth, constipation, paraesthesias (numbness/tingling), depression, anxiety, and elevated heart rate.

Liraglutide (brand name Saxenda)

Liraglutide, like semaglutide, is an injectable drug that is a member of the GLP-1 agonist drug class, most commonly used to treat type 2 diabetes. Studies have shown that it can also help you lose weight. Liraglutide affects how fast your stomach empties and the hormonal changes that occur after you eat a meal. The end result? You feel less hungry and eat less. Another benefit is that people with diabetes and cardiovascular disease have fewer heart attacks and strokes when taking liraglutide compared to placebo.  

Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and low blood sugar. In rare cases, it can increase your risk of pancreatitis. Lastly, animal studies have shown that it may increase the risk of thyroid tumors—so far, clinical trials have not demonstrated an increase in thyroid tumors. However, people with a history of pancreatitis or thyroid tumors should avoid this medication.

Naltrexone/bupropion (brand name Contrave)

Naltrexone treats drug and alcohol dependence, while bupropion (see Important Safety Information) can improve depression and help people quit smoking. The combination of these two medications may affect dopamine, a brain chemical. By doing so, this drug reduces food cravings and decreases your appetite.

Common side effects of naltrexone/bupropion include nausea, headaches, constipation, insomnia, vomiting, dizziness, and dry mouth. Some people also notice elevations in blood pressure and heart rate while using naltrexone/bupropion. Since this combo medication includes bupropion, an antidepressant, it may increase the risk of suicide in young adults with depression when they first start treatment (a known side effect of antidepressants). 

People with uncontrolled high blood pressure, seizure disorders, eating disorders, chronic opioid use, severe liver failure should avoid using this drug. Also, anyone who has used monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) in the past 14 days should not take naltrexone/bupropion because of the risk of serious side effects and drug interactions. 

Orlistat (brand names Xenical, Alli)

Orlistat works by decreasing the absorption of fats from your food—it reduces fat absorption by up to 30%. Orlistat is available in prescription strength (brand name Xenical) and a lower strength over-the-counter formulation (brand name Alli). 

Most of the side effects of orlistat affect your gastrointestinal (GI) system, including stomach rumbling, abdominal cramps, bloating, and constipation. Some of the more distressing GI effects include:

  • Passing gas (sometimes with oily spotting)
  • Diarrhea, loose stools, or greasy stools
  • Frequent bowel movements that are hard to control
  • Liver damage (rare effect)

Fortunately, most of these issues improve after using it for a while. Also, you can avoid some of them by sticking to a low-fat diet. Other side effects include poor absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (vitamins A, D, E, and K) and kidney stones.

Do weight loss pills replace diet and exercise? 

As much as we may wish, weight loss pills don’t replace diet and exercise. Treating obesity with weight loss drugs should only be used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes lifestyle modifications, like diet and exercise, counseling, and behavioral interventions. Adding lifestyle changes may help you minimize weight regain once you stop the weight loss pills.

People taking weight loss medications along with lifestyle modifications lose, on average, 7–10% of their initial weight after one year. These compounding effects may improve your risk of multiple health problems like type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure. 

Weight loss medications may be the added boost you need to help you lose weight. However, they’re not for everyone. Talk to your healthcare provider about prescription medications for weight management to determine if medication is right for you. 

Disclaimer

If you have any medical questions or concerns, please talk to your healthcare provider. The articles on Health Guide are underpinned by peer-reviewed research and information drawn from medical societies and governmental agencies. However, they are not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

References

  1. DailyMed. (2023). Orlistat- capsule. Retrieved from https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=f81dfaeb-46d5-47ce-9ef6-19259f5ac61c
  2. DailyMed. (2022).  Qsymia- phentermine and topiramate capsule, extended release. Retrieved from https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=40dd5602-53da-45ac-bb4b-15789aba40f9
  3. DailyMed. (2022). Saxenda- liraglutide injection, solution. Retrieved from https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=3946d389-0926-4f77-a708-0acb8153b143
  4. DailyMed. (2022). Wegovy- semaglutide injection, solution. Retrieved from https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=ee06186f-2aa3-4990-a760-757579d8f77b
  5. Davies, M., Færch, L., Jeppesen, O. K., et al. (2021). Semaglutide 2·4 mg once a week in adults with overweight or obesity, and type 2 diabetes (STEP 2): a randomised, double-blind, double-dummy, placebo-controlled, phase 3 trial. Lancet, 397(10278), 971–984. doi:10.1016/S0140-6736(21)00213-0. Retrieved from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33667417/.
  6. Fryar C. D., Carroll M. D., & Afful J. (2020). Prevalence of overweight, obesity, and severe obesity among adults aged 20 and over: United States, 1960–1962 through 2017–2018. NCHS Health E-Stats. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/data/hestat/obesity-adult-17-18/obesity-adult.htm
  7. Gorgojo-Martínez, J. J., Basagoiti-Carreño, B., Sanz-Velasco, A., et al. (2019). Effectiveness and tolerability of orlistat and liraglutide in patients with obesity in a real-world setting: The XENSOR Study. International Journal of Clinical Practice, 73(11), e13399. doi: 10.1111/ijcp.13399. Retrieved from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31397946/
  8. Kelly, A. S., Auerbach, P., Barrientos-Perez, M., et al. (2020). A randomized, controlled trial of liraglutide for adolescents with obesity. The New England Journal of Medicine (NEJM), 382(22), 2117–2128. doi: 10.1056/NEJMoa1916038. Retrieved from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32233338/
  9. Khera, R., Murad, M. H., Chandar, A. K., et al. (2016). Association of pharmacological treatments for obesity with weight loss and adverse events. JAMA, 315(22), 2424. doi: 10.1001/jama.2016.7602. Retrieved from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27299618/
  10. LeBlanc, E. S., Patnode, C. D., Webber, E. M., et al. (2018). Behavioral and pharmacotherapy weight loss interventions to prevent obesity-related morbidity and mortality in adults: updated evidence report and systematic review for the US Preventive Services Task Force. JAMA, 320(11), 1172–1191. doi: 10.1001/jama.2018.7777. Retrieved from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30326501/
  11. Marso, S. P., Daniels, G. H., Brown-Frandsen, K., et al. (2016). Liraglutide and cardiovascular outcomes in type 2 diabetes. The New England Journal of Medicine, 375(4), 311–322. doi: 10.1056/NEJMoa1603827. Retrieved from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27295427/
  12. MedlinePlus. (n.d.). Obesity. Retrieved from https://medlineplus.gov/obesity.html
  13. Onakpoya, I. J., Lee, J. J., Mahtani, K. R., et al. (2020). Naltrexone-bupropion (Mysimba) in management of obesity: A systematic review and meta-analysis of unpublished clinical study reports. British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology, 86(4), 646–667. doi: 10.1111/bcp.14210. Retrieved from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31918448/
  14. Perreault, L. (2021) Obesity in adults: Drug therapy. UpToDate. Retrieved from https://www.uptodate.com/contents/obesity-in-adults-drug-therapy
  15. U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). (2020). FDA requests the withdrawal of the weight-loss drug Belviq, Belviq XR (lorcaserin) from the market. Retrieved from https://www.fda.gov/drugs/drug-safety-and-availability/fda-requests-withdrawal-weight-loss-drug-belviq-belviq-xr-lorcaserin-market
  16. Wilding, J. P. H., Batterham, R. L., Calanna, S., et al (2021). Once-weekly semaglutide in adults with overweight or obesity. The New England Journal of Medicine, 384(11), 989–1002. doi:10.1056/NEJMoa2032183. Retrieved from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33567185/
  17. Yanovski, S. Z. & Yanovski, J. A. (2014). Long-term Drug Treatment for Obesity. JAMA, 311(1), 74. doi: 10.1001/jama.2013.281361. Retrieved from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24231879/
Mike Bohl, MD, MPH, ALM
Mike Bohl, MD, MPH, ALM

Dr. Mike is a licensed physician and the Director, Medical Content & Education at Ro.

Related articles

Important Safety Information for Wegovy®

Important Safety Information for Wegovy (semaglutide) injection

Warning: Risk of Thyroid C-Cell Tumors

  • In studies with mice and rats, semaglutide (the active ingredient in Wegovy and Ozempic) caused thyroid tumors, including thyroid cancer. It is not known if Wegovy will cause thyroid tumors or a type of thyroid cancer called medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) in people. Tell your provider if you get a lump or swelling in your neck, hoarseness, trouble swallowing, or shortness of breath. These may be symptoms of thyroid cancer. 
  • Do not use Wegovy if you or any of your family have ever had a type of thyroid cancer called medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or if you have an endocrine system condition called Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2).

What is the FDA-approved use of Wegovy?

Wegovy is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist for chronic weight management, along with a reduced calorie diet and increased physical activity, for people with an initial body mass index (BMI) of:

  • 30 kg/m2 or greater (obesity) or
  • 27 kg/m2 or greater (overweight) in the presence of at least one weight-related comorbid condition (e.g., hypertension, type 2 diabetes mellitus, or dyslipidemia).

Limitations of Use:

  • Wegovy should not be used in combination with other semaglutide-containing products or any other GLP-1 receptor agonist
  • The safety and efficacy of coadministration with other products for weight loss have not been established
  • Wegovy has not been studied in patients with a history of pancreatitis

Who should not use Wegovy?

 Do not use Wegovy if:

  • You or any of your family have ever had a type of thyroid cancer called medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or if you have an endocrine system condition called Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2).
  • You have a known allergic reaction to semaglutide (the active ingredient in Wegovy or Ozempic).

How should Wegovy be administered? 

You can take Wegovy with or without food. The pre-filled injector pen is self-administered as a subcutaneous injection in the stomach, thigh, or upper arm once a week on the same day every week. Your Ro-affiliated provider will guide you on a treatment regimen that may include an increase in dose every four weeks. 

You should not change your dosing regimen or stop taking Wegovy as prescribed without discussing with your provider first. 

What should I tell my Ro-affiliated provider before using Wegovy?

  • Wegovy has certain drug interactions. It’s important to tell your Ro-affiliated provider all of the medications you are currently taking, including prescription, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal and dietary supplements. 

Some medications to watch out for include:

  • Medications used to treat type 1 or type 2 diabetes, including insulin or sulfonylureas (such as Amaryl or Glucotrol XL)
  • Wegovy causes a delay in gastric emptying, so it has the potential to impact the absorption of medications that are taken by mouth at the same time. Your provider can guide you on how to schedule your medications.
  • Other GLP-1 medications, including Ozempic, Saxenda, Victoza, Byetta, or Bydureon
  • If you’re using other products for weight loss, including dietary supplements

It’s important to share your entire medical history with your provider. In particular, tell your provider if you have a past history of:

  • Type 1 or type 2 diabetes
  • Thyroid cancer
  • Pancreatitis
  • Kidney disease
  • Diabetic retinopathy
  • Depression
  • Suicidal thoughts or behavior

Tell your provider if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. 

  • If you are pregnant: Wegovy should not be used during pregnancy. Based on animal studies, there may be potential risks to an unborn baby from exposure to Wegovy during pregnancy. There is no benefit to weight loss during pregnancy and it may cause harm to the unborn baby.
  • If you are a female or male of reproductive potential: Discontinue Wegovy at least 2 months before a planned pregnancy since the drug can stay in the bloodstream for a long time.
  • If you are breastfeeding: Wegovy was found in the milk of lactating rats. Tell your Ro-affiliated provider if you are breastfeeding before you start Wegovy.

Pregnancy registry: There is a pregnancy exposure registry that monitors pregnancy outcomes in women exposed to semaglutide (the active ingredient in Wegovy and Ozempic) during pregnancy. Pregnant women exposed to semaglutide and healthcare providers are encouraged to contact Novo Nordisk at 1-800-727-6500.

Withholding or providing inaccurate information about your health and medical history in order to obtain treatment may result in harm, including, in some cases, death. 

What are the most serious side effects that I or a caregiver should monitor for when taking Wegovy?

If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or seek immediate medical attention.

These serious side effects can occur with Wegovy. You or a caregiver should carefully monitor for these side effects, especially in the beginning of treatment and with dose changes.

  • Thyroid C-Cell Tumors: In mice and rats, semaglutide (the active ingredient in Wegovy and Ozempic) caused an increase in thyroid C-cell tumors, including medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC). It is unknown whether Wegovy causes thyroid C-cell tumors in humans. There were cases of MTC reported in patients who took liraglutide (the active ingredient in Victoza and Saxenda) after the drug was put on the market. Wegovy is contraindicated in patients with a family history of MTC or in patients with Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2). Tell your provider if you get a lump or swelling in your neck, hoarseness, trouble swallowing, or shortness of breath. These may be symptoms of thyroid cancer. 
  • Inflammation of Pancreas (Acute Pancreatitis): Monitor for signs of acute pancreatitis, including severe abdominal pain that does not go away, sometimes radiating to the back, with or without vomiting.
  • Acute Gallbladder Disease: Wegovy may cause gallbladder problems, including gallstones. Some gallbladder problems require surgery. Tell your provider right away if you have pain in your upper stomach, yellowing of skin or eyes (jaundice), fever, or clay-colored stools.
  • Low Blood Sugar (hypoglycemia): Wegovy lowers blood glucose. It can cause too low blood sugar in patients with type 2 diabetes who also take another glucose control medication. Monitor your blood sugar and watch out for signs of too low blood sugar such as dizziness, blurred vision, mood changes, sweating, or fast heartbeat.
  • Acute Kidney Injury: In people who have kidney problems, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting may cause a loss of fluids (dehydration) which may cause kidney problems to get worse. It is important for you to drink plenty of water to help reduce your chance of dehydration.
  • Serious Allergic Reactions: Stop using Wegovy right away if you experience symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including swelling of your face, lips, tongue or throat, severe rash or itching, very rapid heartbeat, problems breathing or swallowing, or fainting or feeling dizzy.
  • Diabetic Retinopathy Complications in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes: If you have type 2 diabetes, tell your provider right away if you experience changes in vision.
  • Increase in Heart Rate: Tell your provider right away if you have a racing heartbeat while at rest. 
  • Suicidal Behavior and Ideation: You should pay attention to any mental health changes, especially sudden changes in your mood, behaviors, thoughts, or feelings. Call your healthcare provider right away if you have any mental changes that are new, worse, or worry you.
  • Never Share a Pen: Pen-sharing poses a risk of infection. 

What are the most common side effects of Wegovy?

  • Nausea
  • Diarrhea
  • Vomiting
  • Constipation
  • Abdominal pain
  • Headache
  • Fatigue
  • Dyspepsia
  • Dizziness
  • Abdominal distension
  • Eructation
  • Hypoglycemia in patients with type 2 diabetes
  • Flatulence
  • Gastroenteritis
  • Gastroesophageal reflux disease

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription products:

This information is not comprehensive. Please see the full Prescribing Information for complete safety information. 

Important Safety Information for Ozempic®

Important Safety Information for Ozempic (semaglutide) injection

Warning: Risk of Thyroid C-Cell Tumors

  • In studies with mice and rats, semaglutide (the active ingredient in Ozempic and Wegovy) caused thyroid tumors, including thyroid cancer. It is not known if Ozempic will cause thyroid tumors or a type of thyroid cancer called medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) in people. Tell your provider if you get a lump or swelling in your neck, hoarseness, trouble swallowing, or shortness of breath. These may be symptoms of thyroid cancer. 
  • Do not use Ozempic if you or any of your family have ever had a type of thyroid cancer called medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or if you have an endocrine system condition called Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2).

What is the FDA-approved use of Ozempic?

Ozempic is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist that is used:

  • with diet and exercise to improve glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.
  • to reduce the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and established cardiovascular disease.

Limitations of Use:

  • Ozempic has not been studied in patients with a history of pancreatitis.
  • Ozempic is not for treatment of type 1 diabetes mellitus.

Your Ro-affiliated provider may recommend the use of Ozempic as treatment for chronic weight management (obesity or overweight).

Who should not use Ozempic?

Do not use Ozempic if:

  • You or any of your family have ever had a type of thyroid cancer called medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or if you have an endocrine system condition called Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2).
  • You have a known allergic reaction to semaglutide (the active ingredient in Wegovy or Ozempic). 

How should Ozempic be administered? 

You can take Ozempic with or without food. The pre-filled injector pen is self-administered as a subcutaneous injection in the stomach, thigh, or upper arm once a week on the same day every week. Your Ro-affiliated provider will guide you on a treatment regimen that may include an increase in dose every four weeks. 

You should not change your dosing regimen or stop taking Ozempic as prescribed without discussing with your provider first.  

What should I tell my Ro-affiliated provider before using Ozempic?

  • Ozempic has certain drug interactions. It’s important to tell your Ro-affiliated provider all of the medications you are currently taking, including prescription, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal and dietary supplements. 

Some medications to watch out for include:

  • Medications used to treat type 1 or type 2 diabetes, including insulin or sulfonylureas (such as Amaryl or Glucotrol XL)
  • Ozempic causes a delay in gastric emptying so it has the potential to impact the absorption of medications that are taken by mouth at the same time. Your provider can guide you on how to schedule your medications.
  • Other GLP-1 medications, including Wegovy, Saxenda, Victoza, Byetta, or Bydureon
  • If you’re using other products for weight loss, including dietary supplements

It’s important to share your entire medical history with your provider. In particular, tell your provider if you have a past history of:

  • Type 1 or type 2 diabetes
  • Thyroid cancer
  • Pancreatitis
  • Kidney disease
  • Diabetic retinopathy
  • Depression
  • Suicidal thoughts or behavior

Tell your provider if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. 

  • If you are pregnant: Ozempic should not be used during pregnancy. Based on animal studies, there may be potential risks to an unborn baby from exposure to Ozempic during pregnancy. There is no benefit to weight loss during pregnancy and it may cause harm to the unborn baby. 
  • If you are a female or male of reproductive potential: Discontinue Ozempic at least 2 months before a planned pregnancy since the drug can stay in the bloodstream for a long time.
  • If you are breastfeeding: Ozempic was found in the milk of lactating rats. Tell your Ro-affiliated provider if you are breastfeeding before you start Ozempic.

Pregnancy registry: There is a pregnancy exposure registry that monitors pregnancy outcomes in women exposed to semaglutide (the active ingredient in Ozempic and Ozempic) during pregnancy. Pregnant women exposed to semaglutide and healthcare providers are encouraged to contact Novo Nordisk at 1-800-727-6500.

Withholding or providing inaccurate information about your health and medical history in order to obtain treatment may result in harm, including, in some cases, death.

What are the most serious side effects that I or a caregiver should monitor for when taking Ozempic? 

If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or seek immediate medical attention.

These serious side effects can occur with Ozempic. You or a caregiver should carefully monitor for these side effects, especially in the beginning of treatment and with dose changes.

  • Thyroid C-Cell Tumors: In mice and rats, semaglutide (the active ingredient in Ozempic and Ozempic) caused an increase in thyroid C-cell tumors, including medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC). It is unknown whether Ozempic causes thyroid C-cell tumors in humans. There were cases of MTC reported in patients who took liraglutide (the active ingredient in Victoza and Saxenda) after the drug was put on the market. Ozempic is contraindicated in patients with a family history of MTC or in patients with Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2). Tell your provider if you get a lump or swelling in your neck, hoarseness, trouble swallowing, or shortness of breath. These may be symptoms of thyroid cancer. 
  • Inflammation of Pancreas (Acute Pancreatitis): Monitor for signs of acute pancreatitis, including severe abdominal pain that does not go away, sometimes radiating to the back, with or without vomiting.
  • Diabetic Retinopathy Complications in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes: If you have type 2 diabetes, tell your provider right away if you experience changes in vision.
  • Never Share a Pen: Pen-sharing poses a risk of infection. 
  • Low Blood Sugar (hypoglycemia): Ozempic lowers blood glucose. It can cause too low blood sugar in patients with type 2 diabetes who also take another glucose control medication. Monitor your blood sugar and watch out for signs of too low blood sugar such as dizziness, blurred vision, mood changes, sweating, or fast heartbeat.
  • Acute Kidney Injury: In people who have kidney problems, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting may cause a loss of fluids (dehydration) which may cause kidney problems to get worse. It is important for you to drink plenty of water to help reduce your chance of dehydration.
  • Serious Allergic Reactions: Stop using Ozempic right away if you experience symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including swelling of your face, lips, tongue or throat, severe rash or itching, very rapid heartbeat, problems breathing or swallowing, or fainting or feeling dizzy.
  • Acute Gallbladder Disease: Ozempic may cause gallbladder problems, including gallstones. Some gallbladder problems require surgery. Tell your provider right away if you have pain in your upper stomach, yellowing of skin or eyes (jaundice), fever, or clay-colored stools.
  • Increase in Heart Rate: Tell your provider right away if you have a racing heartbeat while at rest. 
  • Suicidal Behavior and Ideation: You should pay attention to any mental health changes, especially sudden changes in your mood, behaviors, thoughts, or feelings. Call your healthcare provider right away if you have any mental changes that are new, worse, or worry you.

What are the most common side effects of Ozempic?

  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Stomach pain
  • Constipation

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription products:

This information is not comprehensive. Please see the full Prescribing Information for complete safety information. 

Important Safety Information for Bupropion Sustained-Release (SR)

Warning: Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors

Suicide is a known risk of depression and certain other psychiatric disorders, and these disorders themselves are the strongest predictors of suicide. In short-term studies, antidepressants increased the risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior in children, adolescents, and young adults under age 24. These studies did not show an increase in the risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior with antidepressant use in patients over age 24; there was a reduction in risk in patients 65 and older.

Patients of all ages being treated with antidepressants should be observed closely for clinical worsening, suicidality, and unusual changes in behavior, especially early during antidepressant treatment and when the dose is adjusted up or down. Families and caregivers of patients should look for the emergence of symptoms on a day-to-day basis, since changes may be abrupt.

Call your healthcare provider right away or 911 in an an emergency if you observe any of the following behaviors, especially if they are new, worse, unusual, or worry you: emergence of suicidality, worsening of depression, emergence of anxiety, agitation, panic attacks, insomnia, irritability, hostility, aggressiveness, impulsivity, inability to sit still or restlessness, racing thoughts that you can’t fully control, or becoming easily distracted.

What are the FDA-approved uses of bupropion SR?

Bupropion SR is an aminoketone antidepressant used to treat Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). It is also categorized as a norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitor (NDRI).

Who should not use bupropion SR?

Do not use bupropion SR if:

  • You have had seizures in the past or have been diagnosed with a seizure disorder.
  • You have a current or prior diagnosis of bulimia or anorexia nervosa. 
  • You have abruptly discontinued alcohol, benzodiazepines, barbiturates, or antiepileptic drugs.
  • You are taking a class of medications called monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). Examples of MAOIs include isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), selegiline (Emsam), and tranylcypromine (Parnate), linezolid, or intravenous methylene blue. When MAOIs are used at the same time as bupropion, there is an increased risk of very high blood pressure levels which can lead to a medical emergency. 
  • You have a known allergic reaction to bupropion hydrochloride.

How should I take bupropion SR?

You can take bupropion SR with or without food. The tablet should be swallowed whole and not crushed, split, or chewed.

You should take bupropion SR exactly as prescribed, and continue to take bupropion SR as prescribed even after your symptoms improve. You should not change your dosing regimen or stop taking bupropion SR without discussing with your provider first. A gradual reduction in dosage rather than abruptly stopping is recommended whenever possible.

If your symptoms are not improving or you have any questions about changing or stopping medication, reach out to your Ro-affiliated provider for guidance.

What should I tell my Ro-affiliated provider before using bupropion SR?

  • Bupropion SR contains the active ingredient bupropion. It is the same active ingredient that is found in medications called Wellbutrin, Wellbutrin SR, Wellbutrin XL, Aplenzin, Zyban, or Forfivo XL. Tell your provider if you are taking one of these medications.
  • Bupropion SR has many drug interactions. It’s important to tell your Ro-affiliated provider all of the medications you are currently taking, including prescription, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal and dietary supplements. Some medications to watch out for include:
    • Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), including the antibiotic linezolid (Zyvox) and intravenous methylene blue (rare)
    • Antipsychotics, such as risperidone (Risperdal) and haloperidol (Haldol)
    • Other antidepressants, including SSRIs and SNRIs
    • Theophylline (Elixophyllin)
    • Corticosteroids, such as prednisone
    • Drugs used to treat Parkinson’s Disease called levodopa and amantadine
    • Digoxin (Digox)
    • Tamoxifen
  • It’s important to share your entire medical history with your provider. In particular, tell your provider if you have a past history of:
    • Suicidal thoughts or attempted suicide
    • Bipolar Disorder
    • Family history of Bipolar Disorder or family history of suicide
    • Seizures
    • Liver problems
    • Kidney problems
    • If you are a smoker and/or you’re trying to quit smoking
    • Alcohol or opiate abuse
    • Diabetes
    • Eating disorders
  • Tell your provider if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. You should discuss with your provider if bupropion SR should be used during pregnancy and while breastfeeding.

Withholding or providing inaccurate information about your health and medical history in order to obtain treatment may result in harm, including, in some cases, death.

What are the most serious side effects that I or a caregiver should monitor for when taking bupropion SR?

If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or seek immediate medical attention.

These serious side effects are rare, but can occur with bupropion SR. You or a caregiver should carefully monitor for these side effects, especially in the beginning of treatment and with dose changes.

  • Smoking Cessation: Some people have had serious side effects while taking bupropion to help them quit smoking (known as the brand name drug Zyban). These side effects include new or worse mental health problems, such as changes in behavior or thinking, aggression, hostility, agitation, depression, or suicidal thoughts or actions. If you are thinking of quitting smoking, talk to your provider before you start taking bupropion.
  • Risk of seizure: Bupropion SR can cause seizure and the chance of seizure is related to too high of a dose of bupropion SR. Tell your provider about any past history of seizure, all medical history, and any other medications you are taking.
  • Increase in blood pressure: Bupropion SR can increase blood pressure. Your blood pressure should be well controlled prior to starting treatment. The chance of high blood pressure may be higher if you also use nicotine replacement therapy (such as a nicotine patch) to help you stop smoking. Your provider will monitor your blood pressure regularly. Consider monitoring your blood pressure at home.
  • Activation of Mania/Hypomania: Especially at the beginning of treatment, monitor for changes in behavior such as an unusually elevated mood, feeling unusually irritable, a big increase in energy, being more talkative than usual, racing thoughts, or engaging in risky behaviors. These changes in behavior could be signs of undiagnosed Bipolar Disorder.
  • Psychosis and other neuropsychiatric reactions: Depressed patients treated with bupropion SR have had a variety of neuropsychiatric signs and symptoms, including delusions, hallucinations, psychosis, concentration disturbance, paranoia, and confusion. Some of these patients had a diagnosis of bipolar disorder. Monitor for these signs and symptoms and tell your provider right away if these reactions occur.
  • Eye Effects: In rare instances, antidepressants may cause a certain type of eye problem called acute angle-closure glaucoma. Monitor for eye pain, changes in your vision, or swelling or redness in or around the eye.
  • Allergic Reactions, some severe: Discontinue bupropion SR if you develop an allergic or anaphylactic reaction including skin rash, itching, hives, chest pain, swelling, and shortness of breath.
  • Cognitive and Motor Impairment: Bupropion SR may impair judgment, thinking, and motor skills. Avoid driving a car or operating hazardous machinery until you know that your performance is not affected.
  • Alcohol Use: Limit or avoid using alcohol while taking bupropion SR. If you usually drink a lot of alcohol, talk with your provider first before suddenly stopping. If you suddenly stop drinking alcohol, you may increase your chance of having seizures.

What are the most common side effects of bupropion SR?

  • Agitation
  • Insomnia, trouble sleeping
  • Headache
  • Dizziness
  • Nausea, vomiting
  • Constipation
  • Tremor
  • Sweating
  • A rapid or irregular heartbeat
  • Dry mouth
  • Loss of appetite, weight loss
  • Sore throat

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription products to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

This information is not comprehensive. Please see the full Prescribing Information for complete safety information.