Injectables for weight loss are medications that are administered via injection to aid in medical weight loss. These medications work by suppressing appetite, increasing metabolism, and/or reducing the absorption of fat. Often, the combination of nutrients and vitamins help to trigger several elements within the body that aid in weight loss.
Here are some examples of injectables for weight loss:
- Saxenda (liraglutide): Saxenda is an injectable medication that is FDA-approved for weight loss. It works by mimicking the effects of a hormone called GLP-1, which regulates appetite and food intake. Saxenda can reduce appetite and increase feelings of fullness, leading to reduced calorie intake and weight loss.
- Contrave (naltrexone/bupropion): Contrave is a combination of two medications that are FDA-approved for weight loss. Naltrexone is used to treat opioid addiction and alcoholism, while bupropion is an antidepressant. Together, they work to reduce appetite and increase metabolism, leading to weight loss.
- Victoza (liraglutide): Victoza is an injectable medication that is FDA-approved for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. It works by mimicking the effects of GLP-1, which can reduce appetite and increase feelings of fullness. Victoza has been shown to promote weight loss in people with type 2 diabetes.
- HCG (human chorionic gonadotropin): HCG is a hormone that is produced during pregnancy. It is sometimes used as an injectable medication for weight loss, although its effectiveness for this purpose is controversial. HCG is thought to work by reducing appetite and increasing metabolism.