Losing weight isn’t just about willpower – biological and hormonal signals often drive overeating, making weight management challenging. At Balanced Medical Solutions in Hayward, CA, we offer physician-supervised appetite suppressant therapies designed to help patients manage hunger, curb cravings, and support their weight loss journey. Two of the most effective options available are phentermine, a prescription medication that works as a stimulant to suppress appetite, and oxytocin, a hormone-based therapy that influences satiety and food reward pathways. Used as part of a medically guided weight loss plan, these treatments can help you regain control over your eating habits and achieve sustainable results.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is phentermine, and how does it help with weight loss?
Phentermine is a prescription appetite suppressant that works on the central nervous system, similar to an amphetamine. It stimulates the release of brain chemicals that reduce hunger signals, making it easier to eat less. Phentermine is typically prescribed short-term (a few weeks to months) to help kickstart weight loss alongside diet, exercise, and lifestyle changes.
2. What is oxytocin therapy for weight loss?
Oxytocin is a naturally occurring hormone in the body, often associated with bonding and social connection. Research has shown that oxytocin also plays a role in regulating appetite, food cravings, and metabolism. At Balanced Medical Solutions, oxytocin can be prescribed in oral or intranasal form, where it helps reduce compulsive eating, improve portion control, and support overall weight loss.
3. How do phentermine and oxytocin differ?
- Phentermine is a stimulant medication that acts quickly to reduce hunger signals in the brain, making it effective for short-term appetite suppression.
- Oxytocin works more gently by modifying hormonal pathways that influence cravings and emotional eating. It may be preferred by patients who cannot tolerate stimulants or who struggle with compulsive or stress-driven eating.
4. Are these medications safe?
Both medications are safe when prescribed and monitored by a qualified medical provider. Phentermine can cause side effects such as increased heart rate, jitteriness, or insomnia, which is why it’s not appropriate for people with certain heart conditions or uncontrolled hypertension. Oxytocin is generally well tolerated, though more long-term research is still ongoing. At Balanced Medical Solutions, your provider will carefully evaluate your medical history before prescribing either option.
5. How long can I take appetite suppressants?
Phentermine is usually prescribed for short-term use to jumpstart weight loss, though some patients may use it longer under close medical supervision. Oxytocin may be prescribed for longer periods since it does not carry stimulant-related risks, though your provider will determine the safest approach for you.
6. Who is a good candidate for appetite suppressants?
You may be a good candidate if:
- You have a BMI over 27 with weight-related health concerns, or a BMI over 30.
- You’ve struggled with persistent hunger or cravings despite healthy eating efforts.
- You need short- or medium-term support to improve portion control and eating behaviors.
- You do not have contraindications such as certain heart, thyroid, or psychiatric conditions (for phentermine).
7. How are these medications prescribed at Balanced Medical Solutions?
Every patient begins with a $99 comprehensive weight loss evaluation, which includes lab testing and a detailed medical assessment to rule out underlying causes of weight gain (such as hormone imbalance). Based on your results, our specialists will recommend the safest and most effective weight loss options for your unique needs, and these may include appetite suppressants.
8. Are appetite suppressants enough for lasting weight loss?
Appetite suppressants are tools, not complete solutions. The best results occur when these treatments are combined with nutrition planning, exercise, hormone optimization (if needed), and lifestyle support. At Balanced Medical Solutions, patients also receive ongoing free follow-up visits and medical advice for life, helping ensure that weight loss is not only achieved but maintained.
Ready to take control of your hunger and start your weight loss journey? Schedule your $99 Weight Loss Evaluation today at Balanced Medical Solutions in Hayward, CA. We proudly serve patients throughout the San Francisco Bay Area, including San Leandro, Castro Valley, Union City, Oakland, San Jose, and San Mateo.
