Frequently Asked Questions

 

 

What kind of results can I expect?

Everyone is different, but in most cases, you can expect a steady weight loss of at least a pound a week. Many of our patients safely lose 10 pounds a month or even more. If you aren't losing as much as you should we will work with you to figure out what the problem is. We are committed to your success and will stick with you every step of the way.

 

How long will results last?

Our program is designed to give you a jump start on a healthy lifestyle. In time, you will start to actually prefer healthier food and, as your stomach shrinks, you will get full faster. You'll also feel so good about yourself that you'll be motivated to keep the weight off.

 

What is a typical visit like?

Your first visit to Weight Loss Rx will include a consultation and brief physical examination by Dr. Barnes. You will discuss your medical history, diet and exercise habits and your personal goals and challenges. You will learn how the medicine we use works, what kind of results to expect and possible side effects. Then if you're ready to start losing weight with us (and as long as you are an appropriate candidate for treatment), you will be given your first month's supply of medication and a Vitamin B12 injection.  After that, you will continue to meet with Dr. Barnes once a month to check on your progress and address any challenges. If you have a setback we will reassess and adjust your treatment to fit your personal needs. 

 

How long are the appointments?

The first visit usually lasts about 30 minutes but we can spend up to an hour if necessary (follow up visits take only 15 minutes or so).

 

Do I have to exercise?

No. It isn't absolutely necessary and almost all of our patients still lose weight even if they don't but... exercise is good for us and is a big part of an overall healthy lifestyle. 

 

What if I cheat a little?

We're all human, and unlike some other programs, an occasional backslide on our program will not significantly derail your efforts. Just get back on track the next day and the weight loss will continue.

 

Is it FDA approved?

Yes. All of our treatments are FDA approved. Your health and safety are our biggest concerns.

 

How do weight loss medications work?

The medication most often prescribed at Weight Loss Rx is Phentermine. This medication works by stimulating the portion of your brain responsible for making you feel full after eating. By stimulating this area, your brain tells you that you're full sooner than it normally would. This helps you eat less and make healthier food choices. 

 

Are there any side effects?

All medicines can have side effects, but the majority of people do not actually feel any negative side effects from Phentermine. Many people experience some extra energy and alertness. The main side effect we watch for is increased blood pressure so we check your blood pressure at each visit and require you to check at home about once a week. If you do notice any side effects let us know right away and we may be able to adjust the dose to avoid the side effect and still get the desired result. 

 

Will I get addicted to these medicines?

No. There is very little chance of becoming physically addicted to any of the medicines we use.

 

What is the difference between Phentermine and Fen-Phen?

Fen-Phen was very popular a couple of decades ago. It was a combination of two different medications, Phentermine and Fenfluramine. It helped people achieve dramatic weight loss, but it also sometimes caused a serious problem with the valves in the heart. For that reason, the combination has not been used in over ten years. Further research showed it was the Fenfluramine portion that was actually causing the heart valve problems so Fenfluramine is not even available in the US anymore. The good news is that even when Phentermine is used alone it can lead to almost as much weight loss as the combination did and it does it without the heart valve dangers.

 

Do I have to have blood work done?

Sometimes we may need to obtain some initial blood work to make sure we can help you both effectively and safely. If you have recent blood work that you'd like us to look at, please bring it along for your first visit. Except for rare exceptions, we need to check labs only as needed. 

 

How much does it cost?

The total cost for each monthly visit is $80. That includes your medication and the B12 shot. No hidden charges, no nonsense. Just $80 a month to Feel Great and Look Incredible!

 

Does insurance cover it?

Weight Loss-Rx does not take insurance.

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What if I miss an appointment?

We require a 24 hour notice if you are going to miss your appointment. Otherwise, you will need to pay ahead of time before you can make subsequent appointments. 

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I heard some people get B12 every 2 weeks. Do you offer that?

Yes. Some patients feel that a second B12 injection during the month helps them keep on track. The cost for the additional shot is just $20.

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