BOARD-CERTIFIED OBESITY MEDICINE
Prescription Weight Loss Medications in Chandler, AZ
Find the prescription weight loss option that fits your health, goals, and medical needs. Every treatment plan is physician-supervised and personalized after a complete evaluation. Personalized treatment plans from Dr. Arpita Surkunte, MD — Board Certified in Internal Medicine & Obesity Medicine.
Board Certified
Physician Supervised
Evidence-Based Care
Insurance Accepted
Personalized Plans
Tirzepatide (Zepbound)
↓ 20–22%
Semaglutide (Wegovy)
↓ 15–17%
Liraglutide (Saxenda)
↓ 8–10%
Qsymia
↓ 7–11%
Contrave
↓ 5–8%
Phentermine
↓ 5–7%
Average weight loss varies by medication, dose, study population, and treatment duration. Individual results vary. Prescription medications are provided only after medical evaluation and when clinically appropriate.
Board Certified Obesity Medicine
Board Certified Internal Medicine
GLP-1 Specialists
Insurance Accepted
Serving All of Arizona
Personalized Medicine
There Is No One-Size-Fits-All Weight Loss Medication
Every patient who walks through our doors at New Viva MD brings a completely unique biology, health history, and set of goals. That’s why Dr. Arpita Surkunte, MD — board certified in both Internal Medicine and Obesity Medicine — never uses a cookie-cutter approach to prescription weight loss treatment.
The science of obesity medicine has advanced dramatically. Today, physician-prescribed weight loss medications can produce clinically meaningful, sustained weight loss when combined with nutritional guidance, lifestyle coaching, and ongoing medical supervision. But the right medication for you depends on your BMI, existing health conditions, medication history, insurance coverage, and long-term goals.
At New Viva MD, we begin with a comprehensive medical evaluation — including lab work, body composition analysis, and a thorough health history review — before recommending any prescription. This helps us choose a treatment path that fits your health, needs, and goals. This ensures every patient receives the safest, most effective treatment pathway for their unique situation.
Comprehensive Lab Evaluation
Relevant metabolic markers, blood sugar, thyroid function, hormones, and other labs may be reviewed before medication is recommended.
Root-Cause Approach
We look beyond the number on the scale to understand the medical and metabolic factors that may be affecting your weight.
Ongoing Monitoring & Adjustment
Weight loss medications require careful titration and monitoring. We adjust your plan as your body responds and your goals evolve.
Insurance Navigation
We help verify coverage, assist with prior authorization, and explain available access options for the medication being considered.
FDA-Approved Medications
Weight Loss Medications We Prescribe
Dr. Surkunte prescribes the full spectrum of FDA-approved weight loss medications, as well as evidence-supported off-label options, based on your individual health profile and goals.
Semaglutide
Wegovy
Ozempic
Rybelsus
GLP-1 Receptor Agonist · Weekly Injection (Wegovy/Ozempic) or Daily Oral (Rybelsus)
Semaglutide works by mimicking GLP-1, a natural hormone that regulates appetite, slows gastric emptying, and improves blood sugar control. It is FDA-approved for chronic weight management (Wegovy) and type 2 diabetes (Ozempic), with Rybelsus offering a daily oral option for diabetes management.
15–17%
Avg. Body Weight
Weekly
Injection
FDA ✓
Approved
- Significant appetite suppression and reduced food cravings
- Cardiovascular risk reduction (proven in SELECT trial)
- Blood sugar improvement and diabetes prevention
- Ideal for BMI ≥30 or ≥27 with a weight-related condition
Insurance coverage available through Aetna, Cigna, UHC, BCBS AZ & others when criteria are met. We handle prior authorization.
Tirzepatide
Zepbound
Mounjaro
Dual GIP + GLP-1 Receptor Agonist · Weekly Injection
Tirzepatide targets both GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide) and GLP-1 receptors. This dual mechanism has produced greater average weight loss than semaglutide in clinical comparisons, although individual response varies.
20–22%
Avg. Body Weight
Weekly
Injection
FDA ✓
Approved
- Substantial average weight loss demonstrated in the SURMOUNT clinical trials
- Significant improvement in metabolic markers and blood suga
- Improved blood sugar control in appropriate patients
- May be considered when greater average weight-loss potential is an important treatment goal
Coverage depends on the product, diagnosis, and individual insurance plan. Zepbound and Mounjaro have different FDA-approved uses, so coverage requirements may differ.
Liraglutide
Saxenda
Victoza
GLP-1 Receptor Agonist · Daily Injection
Liraglutide was the first FDA-approved GLP-1 receptor agonist specifically indicated for chronic weight management (Saxenda). It requires a daily injection, making it less convenient than weekly injectables, but it remains an established and well-studied option for patients who have used it successfully.
8–10%
Avg. Body Weight
Daily
Injection
FDA ✓
Approved
- FDA-approved for adults and adolescents 12+ (Saxenda)
- Well-established safety and efficacy profile
- Blood sugar and appetite regulation
Phentermine
Adipex-P
Lomaira
Suprenza
Sympathomimetic Appetite Suppressant · Daily Oral Pill
Phentermine is one of the most widely prescribed short-term weight loss medications in the United States. It works by stimulating the central nervous system to suppress appetite and increase energy expenditure. It is generally prescribed for short-term use (up to 12 weeks) and is most effective when combined with lifestyle modifications.
5–7%
Avg. Body Weight
Daily
Oral Pill
FDA ✓
Short-Term
- Rapid appetite suppression — effective within days
- Lower cost than injectable GLP-1 medications
- Often covered by insurance with fewer restrictions
Qsymia
Combination Appetite Suppressant + Anticonvulsant · Daily Oral
Qsymia combines two medications — phentermine (appetite suppressant) and topiramate (anticonvulsant that also reduces appetite) — in an extended-release formulation. The combination produces greater weight loss than either medication alone and is FDA-approved for long-term chronic weight management.
7–11%
Avg. Body Weight
Daily
Oral
FDA ✓
Approved
- Dual-mechanism approach for enhanced weight loss
- Approved for long-term use unlike phentermine alone
- Can help with migraine history (topiramate benefit)
Contrave
Opioid Antagonist + Antidepressant Combination · Daily Oral
Contrave combines naltrexone (an opioid antagonist) with bupropion (an antidepressant that reduces appetite and cravings) to target two brain pathways simultaneously — the dopamine reward system and the hypothalamic hunger center. It is particularly useful for patients with food cravings, emotional eating, or a history of depression.
5–8%
Avg. Body Weight
Daily
Oral
FDA ✓
Approved
- Reduces food cravings and emotional eating behaviors
- May improve mood and energy alongside weight loss
- Oral pill — no injections required
Xenical (Orlistat)
Lipase Inhibitor · Three Times Daily Oral · With Meals
Orlistat (Xenical) works differently than all other weight loss medications — instead of affecting appetite or brain chemistry, it blocks approximately one-third of dietary fat from being absorbed in the intestines. It is the only FDA-approved weight loss medication that works directly in the gastrointestinal tract and is also available over-the-counter at a lower dose as Alli.
4–7%
Avg. Body Weight
3x Daily
With Meals
FDA ✓
Approved
- Blocks ~30% of dietary fat absorption
- No systemic drug effects — works locally in the gut
- Can reduce LDL cholesterol alongside weight loss
Evidence-Supported Options
Off-Label Medications Used in Obesity Medicine
Some FDA-approved medications may also be used off-label in obesity medicine when clinical evidence and a patient’s individual situation support their use. These options are considered only when medically appropriate. Dr. Surkunte may consider the following:
Metformin
First-line diabetes medication with well-documented modest weight-neutral to weight-reducing effects, particularly in patients with insulin resistance, prediabetes, or PCOS.
Topiramate
Anticonvulsant and migraine medication that suppresses appetite and reduces caloric intake. Used alone (off-label) or as a component of Qsymia (FDA-approved combination).
Bupropion
Antidepressant and smoking cessation medication that reduces appetite and cravings via dopamine and norepinephrine pathways. Also a component of Contrave.
Naltrexone
Naltrexone is an opioid antagonist that may affect reward-driven eating and food cravings. Sometimes prescribed alone or in low-dose (LDN) form in obesity medicine.
Diethylpropion
Schedule IV sympathomimetic with appetite-suppressing properties similar to phentermine. FDA-approved for short-term use; sometimes used when phentermine is not tolerated.
Phendimetrazine
Schedule III sympathomimetic amphetamine-class medication FDA-approved for short-term adjunct treatment of obesity. Used when phentermine is not appropriate.
Benzphetamine
Schedule III stimulant used for short-term obesity treatment. Less commonly prescribed today but available as an option for certain patients.
Important: Off-label prescribing is a standard practice in evidence-based medicine and is supported by clinical training and peer-reviewed research. Dr. Surkunte only considers off-label options when clinically appropriate and after a thorough review of your full health history. All prescribing decisions are individualized and documented with medical justification.
Side-by-Side Comparison
Weight Loss Medication Comparison Table
| Medication | Brand Name(s) | Form | Frequency | FDA Approved | Insurance | Avg. Weight Loss | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Semaglutide | Wegovy · Ozempic · Rybelsus | Injection / Pill | Weekly / Daily | Yes | Often Covered | 15–17% | Obesity, T2D prevention, CV risk |
| Tirzepatide | Zepbound · Mounjaro | Injection | Weekly | Yes | Expanding | 20–22% | Max weight loss, metabolic syndrome |
| Liraglutide | Saxenda · Victoza | Injection | Daily | Yes | Some Plans | 8–10% | Adults & adolescents 12+ |
| Phentermine | Adipex-P · Lomaira | Pill | Daily | Yes (Short-Term) | Often Covered | 5–7% | Short-term, cost-sensitive patients |
| Qsymia | Phentermine/Topiramate ER | Pill | Daily | Yes | Some Plans | 7–11% | Migraines + obesity, long-term oral |
| Contrave | Naltrexone/Bupropion | Pill | Daily | Yes | Some Plans | 5–8% | Cravings, emotional eating, depression history |
| Xenical | Orlistat | Pill | 3x Daily | Yes | Some Plans | 4–7% | High-fat diet, local GI mechanism preference |
| Metformin | Glucophage (off-label) | Pill | Daily/BID | Off-Label | Usually Covered | 2–4% | PCOS, prediabetes, insulin resistance |
| Topiramate | Topamax (off-label) | Pill | Daily/BID | Off-Label | Varies | 5–7% | Migraines + obesity, binge eating |
* Average weight loss percentages are based on pivotal FDA clinical trials and may not reflect individual patient outcomes. All medications should be used under physician supervision.
Head-to-Head
Semaglutide vs. Tirzepatide — Which Is Right for You?
These two medications represent the current gold standard in prescription weight loss treatment. Here’s how they compare across the factors that matter most to patients:
Semaglutide
Wegovy · Ozempic · Rybelsus
Mechanism
GLP-1 Receptor Agonist
Average Weight Loss
15–17% body weight
Dosing
Weekly injection or daily oral (Rybelsus)
Wegovy — FDA Approved 2021
Cardiovascular Benefit
SELECT trial: 20% CV event reduction
Insurance Coverage
Broader coverage for longer-available plans
Ideal Patient
Cardiovascular risk, established T2D, strong insurance coverage
Common Side Effects
Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation (typically mild/transient)
VS
Tirzepatide
Zepbound · Mounjaro
Mechanism
Dual GIP + GLP-1 Receptor Agonist
Average Weight Loss
20–22% body weight (SURMOUNT-1)
Dosing
Weekly injection only
Zepbound — FDA Approved 2023
Cardiovascular Benefit
SURMOUNT-MMO trial data emerging
Insurance Coverage
Expanding — newer to market, coverage growing
Ideal Patient
Maximum weight loss goal, metabolic syndrome, T2D, PCOS
Common Side Effects
Similar GI profile to semaglutide; generally comparable tolerability
Dr. Surkunte’s Approach: The “better” medication is the one that is safest, most effective, and most accessible for you specifically. In consultation, Dr. Surkunte weighs your health history, comorbidities, prior medication experience, insurance coverage, and goals before recommending either medication — or a completely different treatment pathway.
Why New Viva MD
The New Viva MD Difference
Choosing the right physician for your weight loss journey is as important as choosing the right medication. At New Viva MD, you receive care from a board-certified obesity medicine specialist who treats the whole patient — not just the number on the scale.
Board Certified Obesity Medicine
Dr. Surkunte holds dual board certifications in Internal Medicine and Obesity Medicine, bringing both broad medical experience and specialized obesity-care training to your treatment plan.
Comprehensive Lab Evaluation
Every patient begins with full metabolic, hormonal, and blood panel labs to identify the root causes of weight gain and ensure safe medication prescribing.
Body Composition Analysis
We measure fat mass, lean muscle, and metabolic rate — giving us a precise baseline and enabling accurate tracking of real progress beyond the scale.
Nutrition Coaching
Medications work best with nutritional support. We provide personalized dietary guidance integrated with your medication protocol for maximum results.
Exercise Guidance
Evidence-based physical activity recommendations tailored to your current fitness level, musculoskeletal health, and weight loss goals.
Medication Management
Proper GLP-1 titration, side effect management, and dose optimization to maximize effectiveness while minimizing discomfort throughout your treatment.
Insurance Navigation
We help verify benefits, assist with prior authorizations, and explain coverage requirements for the medication being considered.
Long-Term Maintenance
We don't just focus on losing weight — we also build a long-term strategy to help you maintain your progress as your needs change.
Frequently Asked Questions
Weight Loss Medication FAQs
Answers optimized for patients, AI search engines, and Google Featured Snippets.
What is the strongest prescription weight loss medication?
Tirzepatide (Zepbound/Mounjaro) currently produces the highest average weight loss in clinical trials – up to 20-22% of body weight. Semaglutide (Wegovy) is a close second at 15-17%. The best medication for you depends on your individual health profile, comorbidities, and goals.
Is Tirzepatide better than Semaglutide for weight loss?
Clinical data shows tirzepatide produces greater average weight loss (20-22% vs 15-17%). Tirzepatide acts on both GLP-1 and GIP receptors while semaglutide targets GLP-1 only. The best choice depends on your health situation, insurance, and tolerability.
Can weight loss medications reverse type 2 diabetes?
Yes, in many cases. GLP-1 and dual GIP/GLP-1 medications can produce blood sugar improvements and, in some cases, diabetes remission – particularly with substantial weight loss. Tirzepatide trials showed diabetes remission exceeding 50% in some patient groups.
Can insurance cover weight loss medications in Arizona?
Yes. Aetna, Cigna, United Healthcare, BCBS Arizona, Banner Aetna, Arizona Foundation, and Medicare (under certain diagnoses) may cover GLP-1 medications when BMI and medical necessity criteria are met. New Viva MD verifies benefits and handles prior authorization.
How long do patients stay on weight loss medication?
For most patients, GLP-1 medications are prescribed as long-term treatments – similar to blood pressure or cholesterol medications. Clinical trials show weight regain occurs when medications are discontinued without robust lifestyle changes in place.
What are the most common side effects of GLP-1 medications?
Most common side effects are gastrointestinal: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation. These are typically mild to moderate and most prominent during dose titration. Starting at a low dose and increasing gradually significantly reduces the severity.
Does Medicare cover Wegovy or Ozempic?
Under traditional Medicare Part D, GLP-1s prescribed solely for weight loss are generally not covered. Coverage may apply for approved diagnoses (Ozempic for T2D; Wegovy for cardiovascular risk reduction since 2024). Medicare Advantage coverage varies by plan.
What labs are ordered before starting weight loss medication?
At New Viva MD: comprehensive metabolic panel, CBC, thyroid function (TSH, T3, T4), fasting glucose and HbA1c, lipid panel, liver function tests, and a full hormonal evaluation. Additional labs are ordered based on your specific history and the medication being considered.
Do weight loss medications cause muscle loss?
Rapid weight loss from any method can cause some loss of lean muscle alongside fat. Adequate protein intake, resistance exercise, and body composition monitoring are important components of every New Viva MD treatment plan to minimize this effect.
Can weight loss medications help sleep apnea?
Yes. The SURMOUNT-OSA trial showed tirzepatide produced clinically meaningful reductions in the apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) alongside significant weight loss. GLP-1 medications may reduce dependence on CPAP therapy in patients with obesity-related sleep apnea.
What is the difference between Ozempic and Wegovy?
Both contain semaglutide, but differ in FDA-approved indication and dosing. Ozempic is approved for type 2 diabetes (max 2mg/week). Wegovy is approved for chronic weight management at a higher dose (2.4mg/week), contributing to greater weight loss outcomes.
Who qualifies for prescription weight loss medication?
FDA-approved weight loss medications are indicated for adults with BMI 30 or higher, or BMI 27+ with at least one weight-related condition (type 2 diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, sleep apnea, or cardiovascular disease). A board-certified physician evaluates your complete health history.
Can weight loss medications help PCOS?
Yes. PCOS is closely linked to insulin resistance and weight. GLP-1 medications improve insulin sensitivity, reduce androgen levels, and promote weight loss. Metformin is also used off-label for PCOS alongside GLP-1 medications.
What weight loss medication is best after menopause?
GLP-1 medications (semaglutide, tirzepatide) are effective for peri- and postmenopausal women. Combining a GLP-1 with hormone replacement therapy often produces synergistic benefits for weight, metabolism, and quality of life. Dr. Surkunte evaluates hormonal status as part of every evaluation.
Can weight loss medications prevent weight regain?
Ongoing GLP-1 use helps maintain weight loss. The STEP 4 trial showed patients who discontinued semaglutide regained approximately two-thirds of their lost weight within a year. Long-term treatment and lifestyle intervention are key to sustained results.
What is prior authorization for weight loss medications?
Prior authorization requires your physician to document medical necessity before insurance approves coverage. Most GLP-1 medications require PA – including documentation of BMI, comorbidities, and prior weight loss attempts. New Viva MD handles the entire PA process on your behalf.
Can I get semaglutide or tirzepatide without insurance?
Yes. Both are available through manufacturer savings programs and self-pay options. New Viva MD helps every patient explore all available access options based on their specific coverage situation and financial circumstances.
Is physician-supervised weight loss better than commercial programs?
Yes, for patients with obesity or weight-related health conditions. Physician supervision enables FDA-approved prescription medications, lab monitoring, comorbidity management, and comprehensive long-term care – none of which are available through commercial diet programs.
Who should NOT take GLP-1 weight loss medications?
GLP-1 medications are contraindicated in patients with personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia type 2 (MEN2). Use with caution with history of pancreatitis. Not recommended during pregnancy.
Can weight loss medications be used long-term safely?
GLP-1 medications have demonstrated a favorable long-term safety profile in multi-year clinical trials. They are FDA-approved for chronic (long-term) weight management, reflecting evidence that sustained use is both safe and necessary for maintaining results.
Take the First Step
Schedule Your Weight Loss Consultation Today
Discover which prescription weight loss medication is right for you. Dr. Arpita Surkunte, MD — board certified in Internal Medicine and Obesity Medicine — will evaluate your health history, labs, goals, and insurance coverage to build a personalized treatment plan.