Common Questions Before Starting Medications for Weight Loss

If you’re thinking about starting medications for weight loss, you’re not alone. At VIVA Wellness, many of our clients come to us feeling overwhelmed by the information, confused by conflicting online advice, or unsure whether prescription weight loss support is right for them.

We’re here to clear that up.

As a team led by experienced Nurse Practitioners and guided by functional, integrative medical principles, we provide individualized weight loss support using prescription medications, GLP-1s (like semaglutide), and other evidence-based tools. Our clinic in Brookfield serves clients throughout the Milwaukee area who want a thoughtful, medically guided approach.

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions we receive when people are exploring medical weight loss options.

How do weight loss medications actually work?

It depends on the type. At VIVA Wellness, we offer several prescription options, including:

• GLP-1 medications (such as semaglutide) that help regulate blood sugar, delay stomach emptying, and reduce appetite
  
• Oral weight loss medications like phentermine, which may help suppress appetite and boost energy (if appropriate for your health profile)
  
• Supportive guidance to pair medications with nutrition strategies, movement, and wellness therapies like IV hydration and lymphatic drainage

These tools work with your body, not against it, by helping it respond more effectively to hunger cues, stabilize blood sugar levels, and support long-term metabolism.

Am I a good candidate for prescription weight loss?

If you’ve tried diet and exercise and are still struggling, or if you feel like your metabolism is working against you, it might be time to explore medications for weight loss.

You’re likely a good candidate if:

• You have a BMI that meets treatment guidelines (we’ll walk you through this)
  
• You have weight-related symptoms such as fatigue, inflammation, or other metabolic  challenges
  
• You’re looking for a structured plan with professional support
  
• You want to make sustainable changes, not jump into another short-term diet 

We’ll take a full look at your health history, current symptoms, and goals before recommending any specific medication or treatment.

Are there side effects or things I should know in advance?

Every medication has potential side effects, and we’ll go over all of them with you in detail, openly, honestly, and without pressure.

With GLP-1 injections like semaglutide, common side effects may include:

• Mild nausea or fatigue when starting
  
• Occasional constipation or digestive changes
  
• Decreased appetite (often seen as a benefit)

Your provider will walk you through the complete range of possible side effects and make sure you understand how they may apply to you personally.

We help manage these effects with dosing support, hydration tips, IV nutrient therapy (if necessary), and education on what’s normal versus what needs adjustment. We’ll never leave you guessing.

How long do I need to be on weight loss medication?

This depends on your body, your goals, and how your metabolism responds. Some people use GLP-1 medications for several months to stabilize appetite and blood sugar, while others may benefit from longer-term support.

At VIVA Wellness, we always keep your long-term health in mind, not just short-term weight loss changes. Our goal is to help you transition into sustainable habits while supporting your physiology along the way.

Can I combine this with lifestyle changes or DIY plans?

Absolutely, and we encourage it! We offer a variety of digital wellness guides and tools to help you build supportive habits around food, hydration, movement, and more.

Many clients pair medications for weight loss with:

• Gentle, structured eating habits (such as anti-inflammatory meals)
  
• Regular physical activity (walking, lifting, stretching)
  
• Functional support therapies (IVs, lymphatic treatments, etc.)
  
• Stress reduction recommendations and other lifestyle strategies 

You’re not alone in this. We’ll guide you on how to combine these safely and effectively.

Is VIVA Wellness a reliable place for this kind of treatment?

Yes, and we welcome your questions. Our team is led by licensed and certified Family Nurse Practitioners with extensive clinical backgrounds in both conventional and functional medicine. Founder Jennifer Hruz, FNP-BC, APNP, built VIVA Wellness to help clients find lasting results through personalized, sustainable care.

We’ve worked with thousands of clients across Wisconsin, and our approach is always:

• Compassionate
  
• Medically informed
  
• Non-judgmental
  
• Rooted in education and partnership

We don’t push, we don’t sell hype, and we don’t treat anyone like a number. Just real tools for real life, and ongoing support to help you feel your best.

Thinking About Medications for Weight Loss? Let’s Talk.

If you’re ready to explore prescription weight loss options, including GLP-1 medications, oral prescriptions, and supportive wellness care, we’re here to guide you. VIVA Wellness offers medications for weight loss that are safe, medically supervised, and customized to fit your life.

Schedule a consultation at our Brookfield office today. We serve clients across Brookfield, Milwaukee, and Southeast Wisconsin who are ready for a better approach to weight loss — one rooted in science, experience, and real support.