Losing weight and keeping it off is hard, and it is rarely about willpower alone. Genetics, hormones, sleep, stress, medicines and medical conditions all play a part. Dr. Mann offers physician-supervised weight management that looks at all of these together.
Your evaluation
Your first visit includes a detailed medical history (including your weight history, metabolic health and other conditions), a review of your current medicines, and measurements such as body composition and blood pressure. Lab tests are ordered when they are needed. Together, this tells Dr. Mann whether you are a good candidate for medication and which approach is safest for you.
Your plan
Every plan starts with the foundations that make weight loss last: nutrition, regular physical activity, sleep and stress management. Dr. Mann will work with you to set realistic goals and build habits that fit your life.
GLP-1 medicines: semaglutide and tirzepatide
For some adults, a prescription GLP-1-based medicine can be added to the plan. Semaglutide (Wegovy®) and tirzepatide (Zepbound®) are FDA-approved for chronic weight management in adults with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher, or 27 or higher with at least one weight-related condition such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes or high cholesterol. They work best together with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity, and weight often returns if the medicine is stopped.
Dr. Mann will discuss whether a medicine is right for you, the options available, and their cost and insurance coverage.
Important safety information
- Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, stomach pain and reduced appetite. These are usually worst when starting or increasing the dose.
- Serious but less common risks include inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis), gallbladder problems such as gallstones, kidney problems (often from dehydration), low blood sugar (especially with insulin or sulfonylureas), allergic reactions, and changes in mood. Tell us right away about severe stomach pain, persistent vomiting or signs of an allergic reaction.
- Thyroid tumor warning. In animal studies these medicines caused thyroid C-cell tumors. Do not use them if you or a family member has had medullary thyroid carcinoma, or if you have multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2).
- Pregnancy. These medicines should not be used during pregnancy. If you are planning a pregnancy, talk with us first; semaglutide should be stopped at least 2 months before a planned pregnancy. Tirzepatide can make birth control pills less effective for a time after starting or increasing the dose.
- Surgery and procedures. Tell your surgeon or anesthesiologist that you take a GLP-1 medicine, because it slows stomach emptying.
- Compounded versions are not FDA-approved and have not been reviewed by the FDA for safety, effectiveness or quality. Ask us about the source of any medicine you are prescribed.
This is not a complete list. Read the medication guide that comes with your prescription, and contact us with any questions.
Follow-up
Regular follow-up visits let Dr. Mann track your progress, manage side effects, adjust doses and support the lifestyle changes that help you keep the weight off. Individual results vary.
If you have questions or would like more information, call us at 732-202-3000 or request a consultation.