Struggling with hunger, cravings or emotional eating can make weight loss frustrating and discouraging. At Glendale Whole Health we use evidence-based, integrative approaches to help regulate appetite, support metabolism and address the root causes that drive overeating.

Appetite suppressants are not a one-size solution. They are best used as part of a comprehensive plan that includes nutrition, hormone balance, detoxification and lifestyle strategies.

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Why Consider Appetite Suppressants?

Appetite regulation is complex. Hormones such as ghrelin, leptin, insulin, cortisol and GLP-1 all play roles in signaling hunger, satiety and cravings. When these systems are out of balance you may feel constantly hungry, crave sweets or struggle with portion control despite eating a healthy diet.

Appetite suppressants may be considered if you are:

  • Experiencing persistent hunger despite balanced meals
  • Struggling with nighttime eating or sugar cravings
  • Facing metabolic challenges such as insulin resistance, prediabetes or type 2 diabetes
  • Working on weight loss but finding willpower alone is not enough

Safety Requirements at Glendale Whole Health

Because safety is our priority, we follow a strict protocol when prescribing appetite suppressants:

  • Comprehensive baseline exam
  • Baseline EKG
  • Baseline labs, which may include:
    • CBC and CMP for overall blood and organ function
    • Fasting glucose and HbA1c
    • Insulin and lipid profile
    • Thyroid panel (TSH, free T4, free T3)
    • Sex hormones when indicated (estradiol, progesterone, testosterone, DHEA)
    • Vitamin D and micronutrients as needed
  • Monthly follow-up visits to track weight, blood pressure and side effects
  • Quarterly EKGs for ongoing monitoring

This ensures we are not just suppressing appetite but also protecting long-term health.

Prescription Options We May Use

Sympathomimetic Appetite Suppressants

These medications work by stimulating the central nervous system to reduce appetite. They are usually prescribed short-term and require close monitoring.

  • Phentermine (Adipex-P®, Lomaira®)
  • Diethylpropion (Tenuate®)
  • Phendimetrazine (Bontril®)

Possible side effects

  • Increased heart rate and blood pressure
  • Insomnia, restlessness or jitteriness
  • Dry mouth or constipation
  • Headache or dizziness
  • Mood changes or irritability
  • Rare: palpitations, chest pain or arrhythmia

Not appropriate for patients with uncontrolled hypertension, arrhythmias, history of stroke or significant cardiovascular disease.

Combination Medication

  • Naltrexone-bupropion (Contrave®) – addresses appetite and cravings through central nervous system pathways

GLP-1 and GIP/GLP-1 Peptides

  • Semaglutide (Ozempic® / Wegovy®)
  • Tirzepatide (Mounjaro® / Zepbound®)

GLP-1s do more than reduce appetite. They also:

  • Improve insulin sensitivity and glucose control
  • Reduce systemic inflammation
  • Support cardiovascular health and lipid balance
  • Improve blood pressure and waist circumference
  • Address metabolic syndrome
  • Promote sustainable fat loss

We use these selectively since they are powerful tools but do not address every root cause of weight gain on their own.

Beyond Medication: Integrative Support

Medication works best when combined with deeper root-cause strategies:

  • Nutrient injections and IV therapy – MIC + B12, L-carnitine, taurine, B-complex, Weight Loss IV
  • Peptide therapy – GLP-1s, CJC/Ipamorelin and other peptides for metabolism and body composition
  • Supplements – Berberine, alpha-lipoic acid, chromium, magnesium, probiotics and adaptogens
  • Hormone balance – Thyroid, adrenal and sex hormones are evaluated and optimized if indicated
  • Gut and detox pathways – Addressing inflammation, toxins and microbiome imbalances supports sustainable results

Evaluating Your Needs

Every patient is unique. Appetite suppressants can be a helpful bridge but success comes from addressing the deeper drivers of weight gain such as hormones, stress, toxins, sleep and gut health.

If you’re ready to take control of your appetite and metabolism, call (818) 551-0464 or request an appointment online. Our team will help you design a personalized plan for sustainable weight loss and long-term vitality.

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