In recent years, telehealth has revolutionized the treatment options available for individuals struggling with obesity or overweight issues. This approach allows patients to engage in virtual consultations with healthcare professionals without the need for travel or time off work, making it easier to access care. As our understanding of obesity evolves, telehealth emerges as a promising avenue for effective weight management.
A New Perspective on Obesity
Historically, weight loss was often viewed through the lens of willpower—an assumption that individuals could simply rely on diet and exercise to shed pounds. This perspective has shifted dramatically in light of current research.
“There’s been a lot of bias and stigma toward obesity throughout the years,” explains Craig Primack, Senior Vice President of Weight Management at Hims and Hers. “Many people have felt uncomfortable discussing their weight with their healthcare providers because they’ve been repeatedly told that they just need to eat less and move more.”
Fortunately, this outdated mindset is changing. Advances in research have led to a better understanding of obesity as a complex condition that requires comprehensive treatment options. Telehealth services, such as those offered by Hims, now provide access to healthcare providers who specialize in obesity management, including prescription medications, nutritional programs, and mental health services.
Telehealth Solutions for Weight Management
If you find it challenging to lose weight or maintain weight loss, telehealth might be a suitable option for you. With platforms like Hims, the process begins with a personalized health-history assessment conducted online. Based on this assessment, patients are connected with healthcare providers who can create a tailored weight loss plan.
A Holistic Approach
Hims emphasizes a holistic approach to weight loss that includes:
- Medical Support: Continuous access to healthcare providers for ongoing guidance and adjustments to your treatment plan.
- Nutritional Choices: Assistance in making healthy food selections.
- Physical Activity: Recommendations for regular exercise.
- Sleep Management: Strategies to improve sleep quality.
- Medication: If appropriate, prescription medications may be part of your treatment plan.
Potential Treatment Options via Telehealth
Following your initial consultation, your healthcare provider may recommend specific medications to assist in weight management. Here are some common options:
- Bupropion: An antidepressant also used to aid smoking cessation, bupropion can be included in an obesity treatment plan.
- Compounded GLP-1 Injections: These injections contain active ingredients similar to those in branded GLP-1 medications but are not FDA-approved. It’s crucial to research and choose a reputable compounding pharmacy.
- GLP-1 Injections: This medication helps curb appetite by slowing digestion and increasing feelings of fullness, which has been shown to aid in weight loss.
- Metformin: Commonly used to manage type 2 diabetes, metformin can also assist in weight control and is increasingly prescribed off-label for obesity.
- Naltrexone: Originally designed to reduce alcohol cravings, naltrexone is also utilized for obesity treatment.
- Topiramate: Used primarily for seizures and migraines, topiramate has shown potential for weight loss and may be prescribed off-label for obesity.
Ongoing Support and Monitoring
The Hims app is available for free download and includes access to a behavioral program featuring personalized nutritional plans and healthy meal ideas. Users benefit from 24/7 messaging support to connect with their care team and schedule progress check-ins.
If you already have a primary care provider, keep in mind that your telehealth provider will not communicate directly with them. However, Hims encourages patients to inform their primary care physicians about any new prescriptions.
Understanding Telehealth and In-Person Care
Both telehealth and traditional in-person care offer unique benefits in weight management. Recognizing how each option can support your weight-loss journey is essential for achieving your health goals.
Important Considerations
It is important to note that compounded products are not approved or evaluated for safety, effectiveness, or quality by the FDA. Additionally, weight loss services provided by Hims and Hers offer a comprehensive program that includes nutritional support, technological tools, and access to healthcare providers. This program may also involve compounded GLP-1 injections or other medications, which are prescribed based on individual medical assessments.
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