VISN 8 MOVE and MOVEmployee - Health - Medication

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Weight Loss Medications

Do you really want to lose weight?  Yes!

If so, remember to talk to your Primary Care Physician before being signing up for a weight loss program.

Taking medications for weight loss is Level 3 of the MOVE program.*  Medication therapy, with doctor's approval, may be helpful for some patients who have had only limited success with Levels 1 and 2 of the program.  Medicine may be used along with a weight loss program that includes diet, exercise, and behavioral therapy. In the VA, we are here to help you! Contact your Primary Care Physician or MOVE Program Coordinator at your local facility!

* Your local facility may not have this stage available.

There are two medications that are approved by the FDA for long term use in obesity management:

1. Sibutramine (Meridia) = controls your hunger
2. Orlistat (Xenical) = blocks fat from joining in the intestines

There are other medications used for short-term therapy.  Remember: medications for obesity/overweight treatment must be used under strict medical supervision.

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