Excellence in Health Care
Medications
Medications prescribed by Aspire Weight Loss Solutions
Phentermine
Phentermine works by activating the sympathetic nervous system to increase metabolism and suppress appetite. These two mechanisms work together to both increase total daily energy expenditure and decrease food cravings. Phentermine is a great short term option and as needed option for weight loss. EKG clearance or previous use is required for phentermine.
Lomaira (8mg) is the low does option of phentermine that works for people who are caffeine sensitive.
Average cost: $10-$15 at local pharmacy.
Insurance does not typically cover this medication.
Topiramate
Topiramate alters a variety of GABA and Glutamate channels in the brain to suppress cravings and appetite.
Qysmia is the combination pill of topiramate and phentermine that boosts 18% weight loss from starting weight.
Average cost: $15-$20 at local pharmacy. Typically covered by insurance.
Qysmia requires a prior authorization from your health care provider.
Bupropion
Bupropion works by inhibiting neurotransmitter reuptake of norepinephrine and dopamine. By holding higher concentrations of these in the brain, neurons increase signaling and alter hunger and mood.Â
Contrave is the combination pill (bupropion/naltrexone) that is taken once daily and then increased to twice daily. Contrave is a great option for people who need assistance with carbohydrate control and binge eating.
Average cost: Covered by insurance, prior authorization not required for bupropion by itself.
Naltrexone
Naltrexone is a mu-receptor antagonist (blocker). This inhibits the effects on the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis from this receptor, and thus suppresses appetite and cravings.
Contrave is the combination pill (bupropion/naltrexone) that is taken once daily and then increased to twice daily. Contrave is a great option for people who need assistance with carbohydrate control and binge eating.
prior authroization required. Cash price $99 per month through Ridgeway Pharmacy.
Orlistat
Orlistat works directly as a lipase inhibitor. By blocking the breakdown of fats in the intestines, fats cannot be absorbed and are excreted in stool.
Another name for Orlistat is All
Average cost: $70 at local pharmacy, no prescription required.
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Semaglutide
Semaglutide to increase insulin levels by activating cells in the pancreas. It also triggers hormone release to delay the emptying of the stomach, sometimes causing nausea. Semaglutide is a weekly GLP-1 injection.Â
Other names for Semaglutide are Ozempic and Wegovy.
Average Cost: $1100-1200 per month. Cost can be significantly less if covered by insurance. Prior authorization is required.
Liraglutide
Liraglutide works to increase insulin levels by activating cells in the pancreas. It also triggers hormone release to delay the emptying of the stomach, sometimes causing nausea. Liraglutide is a daily GLP-1 injection.
Other names for Liraglutide: Saxenda.
Average Cost: $1200-1300 per month. Cost can be significantly less if covered by insurance. Prior authorization is required.
Tirzepatide
Tizrepatide receptors work to decrease the rate your stomach empties– keeping you full for longer! They also work to decrease your appetite and cravings.
Other names for Tirzepatide: Mounjaro and Zepbound.Â
Average Cost: $1500-1700 per month. Cost can be significantly less if covered by insurance. Prior authorization is required.
