The Truth About GLP-1 Patches for Weight Loss—Plus Affordable Ozempic Alternatives That Work
The natural weight-loss patches might be popular, but don't expect big results
From supplements to injectables to belly-fat blasting beverages, there are plenty of products that claim to speed weight loss. The newest entrant into the diet-culture arena? GLP-1 patches, topical adhesive patches worn on your arm or abdomen that claim to deliver natural weight-loss revving nutrients through the skin.
But do these GLP-1 drug alternatives made with natural ingredients actually work? We asked a top doctor to get to the bottom of this latest craze and share the most effective weight management strategies.
What are GLP-1 patches?
Maybe the first question we should be asking is what’s in a name—or more aptly, what isn’t? “These transdermal patches don’t actually have any active GLP-1 medicine in them,” says Richele Corrado, DO, MPH, FACP, Internal & Obesity Medicine Physician at Revolution Medicine, Health & Fitness.
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Rather than hormones that help regulate blood sugar and appetite, the patches contain botanicals—like berberine, garcinia cambogia, green tea and cinnamon extracts—which the makers claim support weight loss and help balance blood sugar.
But such promises are dubious at best, notes Corrado. “There may be some evidence, though questionable, that active ingredients like berberine and green tea might curb cravings and reduce appetite a bit, but the effects are not dramatic enough for this to be an FDA-approved strategy.”
In other words, the patches are likely much ado about nothing. Still, she acknowledges why they’ve captured our imaginations, if not our wallets. “I think people are trying to find ways to lose weight that are both cost-effective and readily available, especially when a lot of the FDA-approved prescription medications may not be covered by insurance.”
Hope for ‘real’ GLP-1 patches is on the horizon
While the current crop of GLP-1 patches don’t exactly live up to their name, researchers are currently developing a transdermal patch that contains “legitimate GLP-1 hormones,” reveals Corrado. “The way it works is that microscopic needles deliver a steady stream of medicine—equivalent to a once-daily injectable dose—into the bloodstream or into the dermal fluid,” she explains.
She adds that it’s important to note this research is still in its infancy and researchers have not yet completed clinical trials. “But it’s very interesting to learn about the kinds of breakthroughs that may be around the corner,” she adds.
More progress on the weight-loss treatment front: “A lot of pharmaceutical companies, particularly Novo Nordisk [which makes Ozempic and Wegovy] and Eli Lilly [which makes Zepbound], have been studying and reformulating oral weight-loss meds to improve how well they’re absorbed by the body,” continues Corrado. “In fact, Novo Nordisk has an oral form of semaglutide pending approval at the Food and Drug Administration right now at a dose effective for weight loss.”
The most effective oral meds for weight loss
Since GLP-1 patches, at least in their present form, don’t really work and injectables tend to be pricey, Corrado suggests considering more cost-effective oral medications that can be used to support weight loss.
Here, she shares her top picks backed by scientific evidence, some of which come with a nice helping of side benefits. Consult your medical professional to learn which might be right for you.
Metformin
“Those with prediabetes, insulin resistance or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) might consider this medication,” she shares. “There’s also a lot of good data showing Metformin helps reduce the weight-promoting side effects of mood medications like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) that we commonly use to treat anxiety and depression.”
Topiramate
If you suffer from headaches, this med may be ideal, as it helps prevent migraines and often supports weight loss too. It’s also used to treat anxiety and PTSD, Corrado adds.
Qsymia
“This is the most effective oral weight-loss medication we have, proven to help people lose anywhere from eight to 11 percent of their total body weight in clinical trials,” she explains.
Contrave
A combination of bupropion and naltrexone, Contrave could be an especially good choice for people with depression, ADHD, emotional eating or significant cravings, as it supports appetite suppression.
Phentermine
The great news about this option? It’s typically one of the cheaper medications, notes Corrado. But since it may pose a risk to people with heart issues, she says it’s best suited for those who don’t have coronary artery disease, hyperthyroidism, uncontrolled blood pressure or heart rhythm issues.
How to get weight-loss meds for less
“For those without insurance coverage, GoodRx.com is a great place to look for coupons when paying out-of-pocket,” Corrado says. “Also, the manufacturers of Qsymia and Contrave have coupons on their websites.”
Another helpful resource Corrado recommends is The Obesity Action Coalition, an education and advocacy organization with evidence-based resources and directories to help you find providers in your area.
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