
Weight loss is rarely a one-size-fits-all process. Even with the right balance of diet and exercise, many people find themselves hitting plateaus or struggling with persistent cravings or inconsistent results. When that happens, some explore medical options, and injections have become a leading choice in recent years. While some weight-loss injections have captured the spotlight in recent years, they’re not the only options available.
There are other therapies that, under the guidance of a licensed provider, may help you lose weight. In this blog, we’ll explore three such options: naltrexone, sermorelin and liraglutide. Let’s take a closer look at what they are, how they work and when they might fit into a comprehensive weight management plan.
Naltrexone
Naltrexone is an opioid receptor blocker that has been studied for its effects on eating behavior. It may influence the brain’s reward pathways, which are tied to cravings for rich, indulgent foods[1], like sweets, fried snacks or fast food. Research suggests it can make food feel less rewarding for some people, which may help reduce “reward-driven” eating patterns[2]. However, it does not consistently lower overall craving intensity, and its effects can vary between individuals.
This suggests naltrexone may be more relevant for people whose eating habits are strongly influenced by the pleasure of eating, rather than by physiological hunger cues. While it is not considered a stand-alone treatment for weight loss, naltrexone may be prescribed in combination with other therapies as part of a broader weight management plan overseen by a licensed provider.
Typical Dosing Schedule
Naltrexone is commonly prescribed as a once-daily oral tablet. Your exact dosage and schedule will depend on your provider’s guidance and your specific needs.
Side Effects
As with any prescription medication, there is the potential for side effects. Commonly reported ones may include[3]:
- Nausea, vomiting or loss of appetite
- Joint or muscle pain
- Headache, dizziness or drowsiness
- Trouble sleeping
- Cold or allergy-like symptoms (stuffy nose, sore throat)
More serious side effects can occur, such as signs of liver problems, allergic reactions or mood changes. Anyone experiencing serious symptoms should seek medical attention immediately.
Connect With Our TeamSermorelin
Sermorelin is a synthetic peptide that stimulates the body’s natural production of human growth hormone (GH), which in turn supports the creation of insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1). These hormonal changes may help preserve or increase lean muscle mass, support healthy metabolism and improve body composition over time[4]. Research suggests that longer treatment periods can lead to increases in lean body mass and muscle strength, particularly in older adults, even without major changes in overall weight[4]. Since muscle tissue burns more calories than fat, maintaining or improving muscle mass can be an important part of a comprehensive weight-management plan.
Typical Dosing Schedule
Sermorelin is typically administered as a once-daily subcutaneous injection, given about one hour before bedtime. Your exact dosing plan may vary based on your provider’s recommendations.
Side Effects
As with any prescription medication, there is the potential for side effects. Commonly reported ones may include[5]:
- Facial flushing
- Headache
- Nausea
- Pain, redness or swelling at the injection site
- Vomiting
Serious side effects can occur, such as signs of severe allergic reaction (rash, hives, itching, difficulty breathing, tightness in the chest, swelling of the mouth, face, lips or tongue). Seek medical attention immediately if these occur.
Find Out MoreLiraglutide
Liraglutide is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist typically prescribed to help regulate blood sugar in adults and children with type 2 diabetes.
It slows gastric emptying, which can help you feel full for longer, and influences appetite regulation centers in the brain to reduce hunger signals[6]. This combination of effects can naturally encourage eating less throughout the day without feeling deprived.
Liraglutide also suppresses glucagon secretion[7], a hormone that raises blood sugar, which may help keep blood glucose levels more stable throughout the day. Together, these effects may support gradual, sustainable weight loss when combined with healthy eating and regular physical activity under medical supervision.
Typical Dosing Schedule
Liraglutide injections are usually given as a once-daily subcutaneous injection, starting at 0.6 mg daily and increasing by 0.6 mg each week until reaching 3 mg daily by week 5[8]. Your exact schedule may vary based on your needs and your provider’s guidance. If more than three days of doses are missed, treatment is typically restarted at 0.6 mg and gradually increased again.
Side Effects
As with any prescription medication, there is the potential for side effects. Commonly reported ones may include[9]:
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Decreased appetite
- Constipation
- Indigestion or upset stomach
- Headache
- Injection site reactions
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
Less commonly, liraglutide may be associated with conditions such as thyroid changes, gallbladder issues, pancreatitis, kidney problems or mood changes. While these are rare, it’s important to be aware of the signs and contact a healthcare provider if they occur.
Start Your JourneyHow to Decide Which Weight Loss Solution is Right for You
Because each person’s health history, goals and response to therapy are unique, it’s important to work closely with a licensed provider before starting any medication. A physician can evaluate your needs, monitor progress and make adjustments as needed.
While these medications may help support weight management, they are not a replacement for healthy lifestyle choices. Lasting results typically come from combining a medication plan with balanced nutrition, regular physical activity and other positive daily habits.
Take the Next Step Toward Your Weight Goals With Olympia
Finding the right weight-loss medication isn’t just about following trends — it’s about choosing a solution that fits your body, your lifestyle and your long-term health. Naltrexone, sermorelin and liraglutide* each offer unique potential benefits when prescribed by a licensed provider and paired with sustainable lifestyle changes.
Olympia compounds all three of these medications to exacting quality standards, ensuring they are prepared for use as part of a medically supervised plan. With the right guidance, these therapies may help you work toward managing a healthy weight.
Contact our team today to discuss how these options might fit into your weight-management strategy.
Get Started Today*Liraglutide is a compounded drug prepared in accordance with the Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act by an FDA-registered 503B outsourcing facility. It is intended to address current drug shortages as identified by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. This compounded preparation is not approved by the FDA; however, it is produced under strict compliance with applicable federal and state regulations.
Sources:
1. Yeomans MR, Gray RW. Opioid peptides and the control of human ingestive behaviour. Neurosci Biobehav Rev. 2002 Oct;26(6):713-28. doi: 10.1016/s0149-7634(02)00041-6. PMID: 12479844.
2. Mason AE, Laraia B, Daubenmier J, Hecht FM, Lustig RH, Puterman E, Adler N, Dallman M, Kiernan M, Gearhardt AN, Epel ES. Putting the brakes on the “drive to eat”: Pilot effects of naltrexone and reward-based eating on food cravings among obese women. Eat Behav. 2015 Dec;19:53-6. doi: 10.1016/j.eatbeh.2015.06.008. Epub 2015 Jul 2. PMID: 26164674; PMCID: PMC4644449.
3. Drugs.com [Internet]. [cited 2025 Aug 14]. Naltrexone: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Warnings. Available from: https://www.drugs.com/naltrexone.html
4. Sinha DK, Balasubramanian A, Tatem AJ, Rivera-Mirabal J, Yu J, Kovac J, Pastuszak AW, Lipshultz LI. Beyond the androgen receptor: the role of growth hormone secretagogues in the modern management of body composition in hypogonadal males. Transl Androl Urol. 2020 Mar;9(Suppl 2):S149-S159. doi: 10.21037/tau.2019.11.30. PMID: 32257855; PMCID: PMC7108996.
5. Sermorelin acetate: Indications, Side Effects, Warnings – Drugs.com [Internet]. [cited 2025 Aug 14]. Available from: https://www.drugs.com/cdi/sermorelin-acetate.html
6. Cerillo JL, Parmar M. Liraglutide. [Updated 2024 Oct 6]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK608007/
7. Clark L. GLP-1 receptor agonists: A review of glycemic benefits and beyond. JAAPA. 2024 Apr 1;37(4):1-4. doi: 10.1097/01.JAA.0001007388.97793.41. Epub 2024 Mar 26. PMID: 38531038.
8. Cerillo JL, Parmar M. Liraglutide. [Updated 2024 Oct 6]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK608007/
9. Drugs.com [Internet]. [cited 2025 Aug 14]. Liraglutide: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Warnings. Available from: https://www.drugs.com/liraglutide.html