Your body changes during menopause, partly due to drops and fluctuations in oestrogen and progesterone. Many women notice weight gain or a change in where their body stores fat during this stage of life. This can be linked to hormonal changes, age and changes in body composition. In some cases, weight loss medication can offer a solution if a modified diet and lifestyle changes don't produce sufficient results. But how does it work?
Various medications can help, but only in combination with a modified diet and lifestyle changes. Some work in a similar way, while others have a different mechanism of action. The following medications can affect your appetite and help you feel fuller for longer:
Other medications work by reducing fat absorption from high-fat foods, or by reducing appetite or cravings:
This largely depends on the medication you are using, the dosage and other factors such as your diet and lifestyle. As with any medicine, the effects can vary from person to person. Here, you can read about the potential results and when you can expect to see them. We are assuming here that you are following a modified diet, have made the necessary lifestyle changes, and will maintain these throughout your weight loss journey. The results below are averages from previous studies:
As with any medication, you may also experience side effects from weight loss medication. These are usually mild and involve gastrointestinal symptoms. Below is an overview of the possible side effects for each medication:
These side effects are often mild and tend to occur more frequently during the first few days or weeks of treatment, or after a dose increase. For many people, these symptoms lessen over time, although this varies from person to person and depends on the medication. However, this is not the case for everyone. Everyone reacts differently to medication. Therefore, always read the patient information leaflet for a full list of possible side effects and risks.
Contact a doctor immediately if you experience any of the following serious side effects:
This is not an exhaustive list of serious side effects that require you to contact a doctor. For a full list, please review the patient information leaflet carefully.
This varies from person to person, but it is not a quick fix for being overweight. For the best chance of success, the medication must be used long-term. Current studies have primarily shared results for up to 72 weeks of use. It is clear that patience is required to achieve results and reach your goals. If the weight loss medication is suitable for your situation, the doctor at SeeMe-nopause will issue a prescription for 3 months. After this period, an evaluation will take place to assess whether you should continue with the medication. We recommend that you keep a diary of your experiences.
