Heart & Metabolic
Heart & Metabolic: how we evaluate, when we prescribe, and safety checks. Start a confidential online consultation.
Overview
Metabolic treatments address disorders involving energy balance, fat metabolism, and hormonal regulation. Obesity, metabolic syndrome, and insulin resistance increase the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and fatty liver disease.
Uses
Medications aim to reduce appetite, enhance satiety, or modify nutrient absorption. Agents include orlistat, bupropion/naltrexone, phentermine, and GLP-1 agonists (semaglutide). Metabolic supplements like L-carnitine and herbal extracts may serve supportive roles.Mechanism / Approach
Drugs act on central nervous-system pathways that regulate hunger (hypothalamus) or peripheral enzymes that digest fat. GLP-1 agonists mimic incretin hormones to slow digestion and promote fullness.Safety & Patient Considerations
Metabolic drugs should accompany lifestyle changes — diet modification, exercise, and sleep regulation. Some agents may raise blood pressure or heart rate; medical evaluation is required before initiation.FAQ
Do weight-loss medications work without diet changes?
Results are modest; diet and activity remain essential.
Can obesity return after treatment?
Yes; long-term maintenance requires behavioral adaptation.
Are supplements as effective as prescription options?
Generally not — evidence for most herbal products is limited.