Clear, patient-friendly answers to the most common questions we hear at W8MD Medical Weight Loss & Sleep in Northeast Philadelphia—including specifics on tirzepatide (Zepbound®/Mounjaro®), phentermine/topiramate, phentermine, and diethylpropion.

Medications: Eligibility & Safety
Q: Are prescription drugs available for weight loss?
A: Yes. FDA-approved options exist for adults with BMI ≥30, or BMI ≥27 with a weight-related condition (e.g., high BP, diabetes, dyslipidemia). A W8MD physician determines if a medication is appropriate, safe, and cost-effective for you.
Q: Who qualifies for “weight-loss injections” like Wegovy® or Zepbound®?
A: Eligibility depends on BMI, medical history, current meds, pregnancy status, and insurance coverage. Your W8MD provider reviews risks/benefits and checks prior authorizations when needed.
Q: Can a W8MD weight loss doctor in Philadelphia prescribe weight loss pills?
A: Yes—when clinically appropriate. We prescribe evidence-based medications and pair them with nutrition, activity, and follow-up.
Q: Is a doctor necessary for weight loss?
A: You can lose weight without prescriptions, but medical supervision helps uncover hidden barriers (e.g., insulin resistance, sleep apnea, thyroid issues), improves safety, and increases success, especially when medications or VLCDs are used.

GLP-1 / GIP Injectables
Q: What is tirzepatide (Zepbound®/Mounjaro®), and how does it help with weight loss?
A: Tirzepatide is a dual GLP-1/GIP receptor agonist. It helps reduce appetite, improve fullness, and support significant weight reduction.
Zepbound®: FDA-approved for chronic weight management.
Mounjaro®: FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes (often leads to weight loss).
Dosed once weekly with gradual titration to reduce side effects (nausea, diarrhea, constipation). Not for pregnancy; avoid with certain thyroid conditions and pancreatitis history—your W8MD clinician will screen.
Q: Wegovy® vs. Ozempic®—what’s the difference?
A: Both contain semaglutide.
Wegovy®: FDA-approved specifically for chronic weight management.
Ozempic®: FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes; some weight loss occurs, and some clinicians may use it off-label for weight, but Wegovy is the labeled choice for non-diabetics seeking weight management.
Q: Can Wegovy increase appetite or cause nausea?
A: Nausea is the most common early side effect; appetite usually decreases but individual responses vary. Dose ramp-up helps tolerability.
Q: How long does Wegovy take to work?
A: Many patients notice appetite changes within weeks; most weight loss accrues over months as the dose is titrated and lifestyle changes are sustained.
Q: How does Ozempic help with weight loss?
A: In people with type 2 diabetes, Ozempic (semaglutide) improves glycemic control and often reduces appetite, aiding weight loss. For non-diabetics pursuing weight loss, Wegovy is the indicated brand/dose.

Sympathomimetic & Combination Oral Options
Q: How does phentermine help with weight loss?
A: Phentermine is an appetite suppressant. With nutrition and habit support, many patients lose weight over weeks to months. It’s typically short-term, with monitoring of BP/HR, sleep, and mood. Not for pregnancy, hyperthyroidism, glaucoma, MAOI use, or certain heart conditions.
Q: What are the side effects of phentermine?
A: Possible dry mouth, insomnia, increased heart rate, elevated BP, anxiety/irritability, constipation. We screen for contraindications and monitor regularly.
Q: What is phentermine/topiramate, and who is it for?
A: A combination that can enhance appetite control and satiety. It’s used longer-term than phentermine alone.
Common side effects: tingling in hands/feet, altered taste (especially with carbonated drinks), dry mouth, constipation, insomnia.
Important cautions: Pregnancy (teratogenic risk)—requires reliable contraception and routine pregnancy testing; caution in glaucoma, kidney stones, and mood/cognitive effects. We start low and titrate.
Q: What about diethylpropion?
A: An older appetite suppressant approved for short-term use. Potential side effects are similar to other stimulants (dry mouth, insomnia, BP/HR changes). We use it selectively with close follow-up.

Program & Nutrition
Q: Does W8MD offer nutrition counseling for weight loss?
A: Yes. We provide medical nutrition therapy (MNT) with protein-forward, high-fiber, low-glycemic or keto-friendly options, and (when appropriate) LCD/VLCD plans with supervision. Meal replacements are optional tools.
Q: Does W8MD’s program include injections?
A: Yes—when indicated. Options may include Wegovy, Ozempic (for diabetes), Saxenda/Victoza, Mounjaro/Zepbound. We also offer B12 and lipotropic injections as adjuncts. All use is case-by-case with safety screening.
Q: What is the best way to take Wegovy for weight loss?
A: Follow your prescribed weekly dosing and titration, pair with a calorie-controlled, protein-forward eating plan and regular activity, and keep follow-up visits to manage side effects and dose changes.

Results & Expectations
Q: How quickly can I lose weight? What’s realistic?
A: A safe pace is typically 1–2 lb/week. Rapid plans (VLCD) may be used short-term under medical supervision. Aim for steady progress and skill-building for maintenance.
Q: What is the fastest way to lose 20 pounds?
A: There’s no “fastest” that’s safe for everyone. The smart path: physician-guided calorie control, protein at each meal, daily steps + 2–3 strength sessions/week, sleep optimization, and medication only if appropriate.
Q: How long should I take Wegovy?
A: Duration is individualized. Your doctor will reassess benefits, side effects, labs, and goals at regular intervals.

Troubleshooting & Next Steps
Q: Why am I not losing weight?
A: Common culprits: under-tracking calories, low protein/fiber, sleep issues (e.g., apnea), medications that promote weight gain, insulin resistance, low NEAT (daily movement), or too few strength sessions. We’ll re-assess and adjust your plan.
Q: What should I do if I’m struggling despite “doing everything right”?
A: Book a follow-up. We’ll check measurements/labs, refine your calorie target, adjust macros, screen for sleep disorders, and consider medication or dose titration if appropriate.
Q: What are the ways to lose weight?
A: A calorie-controlled diet, evidence-based medications (when indicated), exercise (especially strength training), sleep optimization, and behavior tools—all personalized.
Q: What does W8MD specialize in?
A: Physician-supervised weight loss, sleep medicine (diagnostics & PAP therapy), and medical aesthetics (select locations).

Book an Appointment (Insurance-Friendly Visits)
W8MD Medical Weight Loss & Sleep – Philadelphia (Primary)
1718 Welsh Road, 2nd Floor, Ste C
Philadelphia, PA 19115
Phone: (215) 676-2334
W8MD – New York City
2632 East 21st Street, Ste L3
Brooklyn, NY 11235
Phone: (718) 946-5500
Medical disclaimer: Information here is educational and not a substitute for personal medical advice. Medication eligibility, dosing, and duration must be determined by your prescribing clinician based on your individual health profile.