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Old Meds, New Tools: What Dayton Adults Should Know About Weight Loss Medications

  • Writer: Esra Shermadou
    Esra Shermadou
  • Sep 25
  • 3 min read

Feeling Stuck With Weight Loss? You're Not Alone.


If you're trying to lose weight but feel like nothing works anymore, you're not alone. Many men and women in their 30s to 60s feel overlooked, frustrated, or just plain tired of trying diets that don’t deliver.


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The good news? We have more effective tools than ever before—and not all of them are brand new. At Sakinah Health, we offer both time-tested and cutting-edge medications tailored to your health, history, and goals.


Older Weight Loss Medications: Still Effective for Many

Before newer medications like Wegovy or Zepbound took over the headlines, doctors used other FDA-approved tools that still work well for certain people.


Phentermine

  • A prescription stimulant that suppresses appetite and slightly boosts metabolism

  • Often used short-term, but studies support longer use in some low-risk patients

  • Average weight loss: ~6%

  • Side effects: dry mouth, jitteriness, insomnia, increased heart rate

  • Not suitable for those with heart conditions or high blood pressure


Orlistat (Alli, Xenical)

  • Blocks absorption of about 30% of dietary fat

  • Must be taken 3x daily with meals

  • Average weight loss: ~3–5% over a year

  • Side effects: oily stools, gas, urgent bowel movements

  • Requires a multivitamin to replace lost fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K)


Qsymia

  • Combines phentermine with topiramate (originally for seizures/migraines)

  • Targets multiple pathways: appetite + cravings

  • Average weight loss: ~9–10%

  • Side effects: dry mouth, mood changes, tingling, insomnia

  • Women of childbearing age need reliable contraception


Contrave

  • Combines bupropion (an antidepressant) with naltrexone (used for addiction)

  • Helps reduce emotional eating and cravings

  • Average weight loss: ~5–9%

  • Side effects: nausea, insomnia, headache, dry mouth

  • Not for use if you have seizures, are on opioids, or have certain mental health conditions


The New Era: GLP-1s, Dual, and Triple Agonists

More recently, medications that target gut and brain hormones have made significant waves in obesity care.


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GLP-1 Receptor Agonists (Liraglutide, Semaglutide)

  • Mimic natural hormones that regulate insulin, appetite, and digestion

  • Liraglutide (Saxenda): daily injection; ~5–7% weight loss

  • Semaglutide (Wegovy): weekly injection; ~15% average weight loss

  • Common side effects: nausea, constipation, diarrhea

  • Also shown to reduce cardiovascular and kidney disease risks in some patients


Tirzepatide (Zepbound)

  • A dual-action medication: GLP-1 + GIP

  • Enhances insulin, appetite control, and fat metabolism

  • Average weight loss: ~20% in clinical trials

  • Weekly injection

  • Similar GI side effects to semaglutide


Retatrutide (Coming Soon)

  • A triple-agonist: GLP-1 + GIP + glucagon receptor

  • Early studies show weight loss approaching 25%

  • Still in clinical trials; not yet FDA-approved


Which Option Is Right for You?


There is no one-size-fits-all solution. That’s why at Sakinah Health, we take time to understand your health history, lifestyle, and goals before making any recommendation.


Whether you’re looking for:

  • A medication that helps with emotional eating

  • A jumpstart to break through a plateau

  • A long-term solution for significant weight loss

  • A plan that works even if you have diabetes, PCOS, or high blood pressure


…we'll help you choose what’s medically safe and most effective for you.


Why Choose Sakinah Health?

Sakinah Health is a direct primary care practice serving adults in Dayton, Ohio, and surrounding communities.


We specialize in:

  • Longer visits that go beyond the surface

  • Personalized care without insurance headaches

  • Transparent pricing and ongoing support

  • Hormone, metabolic, and lifestyle-based weight care


You’re not lazy. You’re not broken. You’re likely dealing with complex biological factors—and you deserve expert support that sees the whole you.


Take the Next Step

If you're ready to feel like yourself again, we're here to help. Schedule a consultation at SakinahHealth.com to learn which treatment option is right for your body, your life, and your goals.


Weight loss isn’t just about willpower. It’s about support, strategy, and science.


Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new medication or weight

loss plan.

 
 
 

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