Phentermine vs GLP-1 Medications: Which Weight Loss Option Is Right for You?

By Dr. Trace Curry, MD, FASMBS – Medical Director, JourneyLite Physicians

A Conversation About Phentermine vs. GLP-1’s With Dr. Trace Curry

Hi, I’m Dr. Trace Curry with JourneyLite Physicians.

If you’ve looked into weight-loss medications lately, you’ve probably heard a lot about GLP-1 medications — drugs like Wegovy®, Zepbound®, and Ozempic®. They’ve helped many people lose significant weight.

But one question I get all the time is:
“If GLP-1s are so effective, why do doctors still prescribe phentermine?”

That’s a great question — and the answer might surprise you. Let’s talk about why phentermine is still one of the most useful tools in a modern, medically supervised weight-loss plan.

GLP-1 Medications: Impressive but Imperfect

GLP-1s work by mimicking a hormone that helps you feel full sooner and stay full longer. They slow digestion and reduce appetite, which can result in steady, impressive weight loss — often 10–15% of total body weight in a year.

That said, there are a few downsides:

• 💰 High cost: GLP-1 drugs can run over $1,000 per month if not covered by insurance.
• ⏱️ Slow ramp-up: Doses increase gradually over several months to minimize side effects.
• 🤢 GI symptoms: Nausea, bloating, constipation, or fatigue are common.
• 🔁 Regain risk: Once you stop, appetite usually returns — and so does the weight.

GLP-1s can be life-changing for some patients, especially those with type 2 diabetes or severe obesity. But for others, there’s a simpler, more affordable path.

Phentermine: A Proven, Affordable Starting Point

Phentermine (also known as Adipex) has been around for decades — and it remains one of the most effective appetite suppressants available when prescribed and monitored correctly.

Here’s why I still use it often in my practice at JourneyLite:

1. It works quickly

Phentermine starts curbing appetite within hours. For many patients, that early success provides a huge psychological boost and keeps motivation high.

2. It’s affordable

Generic phentermine often costs under $30 a month — a fraction of the cost of weekly GLP-1 injections. For patients without insurance coverage, that’s a major advantage.

3. It’s easy to take

It’s a simple once-a-day pill — no injections, no refrigeration, and no complicated schedules.

4. It’s well-understood and time-tested

Because phentermine has been used safely for decades, we know how to screen for side effects and monitor your progress closely. Most patients tolerate it well when properly selected.

5. It can jump-start lifestyle change

At JourneyLite, we use phentermine as part of a comprehensive plan that includes nutrition, activity, and behavioral support. Patients often lose 5–10% of body weight in the first few months — a great foundation for long-term success.

GLP-1s vs Phentermine: Which Fits You Best?

When I meet with a new patient, we always look at the whole picture — health conditions, weight-loss goals, cost, and lifestyle.

Here’s how I typically decide:

• Short-term weight loss or budget concerns? → Phentermine is usually my first choice.
• Cardiovascular disease or diabetes? → GLP-1s may offer more metabolic benefit.
• Combination approach needed? → Sometimes we use phentermine before or after GLP-1 therapy to help transition and maintain results.

Remember: neither drug is a “magic pill.” The best outcomes come from medication plus lifestyle change — and that’s exactly what we specialize in at JourneyLite.  Even better outcomes are seen with surgical procedures like the gastric sleeve, which yield up to 5x the weight loss than even the most powerful GLP-1.

When Phentermine Might Not Be Right for You

Phentermine isn’t ideal if you have:

• Uncontrolled high blood pressure
• Heart rhythm issues
• Anxiety or insomnia
• A history of stimulant misuse
• Patients who are already on stimulants for ADHD

The Bottom Line

Phentermine is not old-fashioned — it’s a proven, accessible, and effective option when prescribed safely and monitored by an experienced medical team.

GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy® or Zepbound® have their place, but phentermine remains a practical and empowering tool — especially for motivated patients ready to take control of their weight.

If you’re curious whether phentermine or a GLP-1 would fit you best, we can help you decide with a free, no-obligation consultation.

➡️ Learn more: JourneyLite Medical Weight Loss Program »
📍 Locations: Cincinnati • Columbus • Dayton • Northern Kentucky • Indianapolis
💬 Ready to get started? Call (513) 559-1222 or schedule a free consultation online at JourneyLite.com