Description

Mochi Health specializes in providing personalized weight loss plans. Its services include virtual consultations with board-certified doctors and registered dietitians, who tailor plans to fit your needs.

Depending on your health conditions, Mochi Health’s doctors prescribe FDA-approved weight loss medications, such as semaglutide and tirzepatide. These treatments can work with your hormones to aid appetite control and metabolism.

However, do the Mochi Health services address your concerns in a timely manner compared to other online weight loss programs? In this exclusive review, we explore its services, the medications offered, potential side effects, and some other similar options.

About Mochi Health

Founded by Dr. Myra Ahmad, MD, Mochi Health is an online platform that claims to manage your weight with personalized care. The process starts with a short quiz to check if you qualify, followed by a video visit with a board-certified doctor. Based on your needs, they create a customized plan to support your weight loss journey.

Your Mochi Health provider will review your medical history, current symptoms, medications, and past treatments to find the right medication for you. They may prescribe options like Tirzepatide, Semaglutide, or Liraglutide, along with others.

To qualify for a Mochi Health program, your Body Mass Index (BMI) must be over 30 kg/m². If your BMI is over 27 kg/m², you may still be eligible if you have any weight-related health conditions like high blood pressure. To find out if you qualify, simply fill out the online Eligibility form on the Mochi Health website.

However, not everyone may avail of Mochi Health programs, as eligibility depends on factors like medical history and BMI. GLP-1 medications might also contribute to an increased likelihood of adverse effects, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Medications Offered By Mochi Health

1. Injectable

   • Semaglutide

     Mochi Health offers semaglutide as part of its medical weight management program. The injectable medication is available under Wegovy® and Ozempic®. Wegovy® is a GLP-1 medication that was approved by the FDA in 2021. It may help you lose weight, whether you have diabetes or not.

     Semaglutide works by replicating the effects of the GLP-1 hormone. By acting like GLP-1, semaglutide may help you feel full sooner and suppress your hunger. Such effects might help you consume fewer calories, potentially contributing to weight loss over time.

     While Semaglutide may be beneficial, you may experience side effects, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, or abdominal discomfort.

   • Tirzepatide

     The Mochi Health team provides Tirzepatide medications (Mounjaro® and Zepbound®) as part of their personalized weight loss plans. Tirzepatide works by activating GIP and GLP-1 receptors, which may enhance insulin release, reduce glucagon levels, and slow gastric emptying.

     Clinical studies have shown that participants taking Tirzepatide lost up to 21% of their body weight over 36 weeks. The findings may indicate that tirzepatide could help with long-term weight loss goals.

     While Tirzepatide may be effective, it is not suitable for people with chronic malabsorption, liver conditions like cholestasis, or a history of gallbladder disease, pancreatitis, or thyroid disorders.

   • Liraglutide

     Liraglutide, available as Saxenda® and Victoza®, is a GLP-1 medication that may help control appetite and reduce cravings. It works by mimicking the body’s natural GLP-1 hormone, sending signals to the brain to promote fullness and decrease food intake.

     The Mochi Health team offers personalized support for patients considering GLP-1 medications like Saxenda®. The medication is FDA-approved for supporting weight loss in people with a BMI of 27 or higher or those with weight-related health conditions. However, weight loss results might vary from person to person.

     Since Saxenda® and Victoza® require daily injections, some patients may find them less convenient. Insurance coverage for such medications may also differ.

2. Oral

   • Topiramate

     Topiramate, sold under the brand names Topamax®, Qudexy®, and Trokendi XR®, was originally developed to treat epilepsy and prevent migraines. However, it is also used off-label for weight management.

     Mochi Health aims to provide access to Topiramate through a personalized, clinician-guided approach. If you are looking for an FDA-approved option, Qsymia®, a mix of phentermine and extended-release topiramate, is also available on Mochi Health via prescription.

     Topiramate increases GABA activity, which calms the brain and may reduce the urge to eat for comfort or out of habit. It may also block glutamate receptors, which are linked to food cravings and reward-driven eating. These effects may help lower your daily calorie intake, contributing to weight loss.

     However, Topiramate may cause side effects, including memory problems, trouble concentrating, and brain fog. Changes in mood and taste are also common with Topiramate. It may also cause you to experience numbness or tingling in your hands and feet.

   • Bupropion

     At Mochi Health, you get access to prescription medications like Bupropion, which might help with your weight loss goals. Bupropion is sold under brand names such as Zyban®, Contrave®, and Aplenzin XR®.

     Bupropion works by changing the levels of brain neurotransmitters like norepinephrine and dopamine. These chemicals could affect hunger and mood, which might help reduce appetite and support weight loss efforts.

     Studies have shown that bupropion may be effective in promoting weight loss. In clinical trials, patients taking a combination of naltrexone and bupropion, along with a diet and exercise program, experienced better weight loss outcomes than those taking a placebo.

     While Bupropion may aid in weight loss, there is a potential chance that you may experience side effects like dry mouth, trouble sleeping, or feelings of anxiety. In some cases, Bupropion might also trigger an increase in blood pressure.

   • Semaglutide Tablets

     Through Mochi Health, you can get access to oral semaglutide (Rybelsus®). It is a medication that may support weight loss by activating GLP-1 receptors in the brain. Such effects may help slow stomach emptying, keeping you full longer and making it easier to eat less over time.

     Research has shown that Rybelsus® may be effective in supporting weight loss. In clinical studies, participants taking oral semaglutide experienced noticeable reductions in body weight compared to those on a placebo.

     Using oral Semaglutide might cause you to experience mild side effects, which may include nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, and constipation.

   • Naltrexone

     Mochi Health offers oral medications like Naltrexone, which are available as Apo-Naltrexone® and ReVia®. Naltrexone works by blocking mu-opioid receptors, which influence the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. The blocking effect might help reduce signals that trigger overeating and cravings.

     ReVia® (naltrexone hydrochloride) may also support weight loss. In clinical trials, a combination of naltrexone and bupropion resulted in an average weight loss of 4.1% from baseline. The participants were also more likely to lose around 5% of their weight than those taking a placebo.

     However, oral Naltrexone may cause side effects like dizziness, constipation, headaches, trouble sleeping, and more. These side effects could be mild for some but more noticeable for others.

   • Orlistat

     Mochi Health provides Orlistat under the brand names Xenical® and Alli®, which may help support weight loss efforts. When used with a calorie-controlled diet, Orlistat could help you lose weight and help lower the risk of weight regain.

     Orlistat works by blocking enzymes called lipases in your digestive system. When Orlistat reduces lipase enzyme activity, your body becomes unable to absorb fats. Instead, the excess fats are excreted as stool. The process may help contribute to a better fat metabolism.

     In a research study, people who took 120 mg of Orlistat along with a low-calorie diet lost significantly more weight over 52 weeks than the placebo group. The finding may suggest that Orlistat, when paired with a proper diet, might help you achieve better weight loss results.

     However, Orlistat may contribute to potential side effects, which may include oily spotting, gas with discharge, and fatty or oily stools. There is also a potential chance that Orlistat may impair your body’s ability to absorb vitamins like A, D, E, and K.

Side Effects

1. Gastrointestinal Discomfort

   GLP-1 medications from Mochi Health may slow down digestion, which might lead to various gastrointestinal issues such as diarrhea, vomiting, constipation, bloating, and stomach pain. Some users may also experience constipation due to delayed stomach emptying, which may trigger bloating. Nausea is a common side effect associated with GLP-1 receptor agonists like semaglutide and tirzepatide. Nausea may be mild for some but severe for others, making it difficult to consume meals.

   These symptoms usually improve as the body gets used to GLP-1 medications, but if they persist, dietary adjustments might be needed.

2. Skin Sensitivity and Rash

   Using injectable GLP-1 medications like tirzepatide might contribute to skin-related side effects, including dryness, itching, and rash. These symptoms may be mild for most users but might be more pronounced in those with sensitive skin or conditions like eczema.

   In rare cases, hives or more severe allergic skin reactions might occur at the injection site. These reactions may include redness, swelling, bruising, or pain. If a rash or severe skin reaction develops, medical attention should be sought to rule out an allergic reaction.

3. An Increased Risk of Pancreatitis

   Sometimes, using GLP-1 receptor agonists might contribute to an increased risk of pancreatitis, which refers to inflammation of the pancreas. Symptoms may include persistent nausea, vomiting, fever, or sudden, intense abdominal pain that may radiate to the back.

   People with a history of pancreatitis or gallbladder disease may be at higher risk and should inform their doctor before starting GLP-1 medications. If any symptoms of pancreatitis occur, immediate medical attention may be required.

4. Nutritional Deficiencies

   When taking semaglutide or tirzepatide, you may experience nutritional deficiencies because these medications reduce your appetite, slow digestion, and sometimes cause nausea or vomiting, which can lower your nutrient intake and absorption. You might not consume enough protein, leading to muscle loss, and you could develop deficiencies in essential minerals and vitamins, including B12, iron, and electrolytes such as potassium and magnesium.

Privacy Policy Of Mochi Health

Mochi Health collects personal information you provide directly, such as your name, email address, phone number, and payment details. They also gather data on how you use their website, including your IP address, browser type, and pages visited.

Your personal information may be shared with third parties in specific situations. For example, Mochi Health might share data with service providers who assist in operating their website or processing payments. They may also disclose your personal information if required by law or to protect their rights and safety.

The makers state that Mochi Health uses organizational and technical measures to keep your personal information safe. These include secure servers and encryption to protect your data from unauthorized access.

However, no means of information over the internet or electronic storage is completely secure, so they cannot guarantee absolute security. Mochi Health encourages you to use strong passwords to protect your account information.

Mochi Health Alternatives

1. FuturHealth

   FuturHealth provides a comprehensive weight loss program that pairs regulated medications with personalized nutrition plans and ongoing support. You may get access to medications like semaglutide, Zepbound®, compounded semaglutide, and metformin, prescribed based on your health profile and BMI.

   FuturHealth also provides customized diet plans tailored to your lifestyle, goals, and biology. Their program includes virtual visits with licensed medical providers, telehealth appointments, and expert guidance from dietitians to support weight loss goals. FuturHealth weight loss program pairs scientifically-proven medications, personalized nutrition plans, and fresh meal deliveries.

   On the other hand, Mochi Health provides personalized obesity medicine plans that include virtual visits with physicians and dietitians, ongoing care, and 24/7 patient support.

2. Fella Health

   Created by Richie Cartwright, Fella Health claims to offer weight loss plans for men alongside personalized coaching, health evaluations, and medication. Based on your health and BMI, the doctors at Fella Health may prescribe GLP-1 medications like Semaglutide and Tirzepatide, which may help reduce appetite and control cravings. Their program includes a full metabolic assessment, potential lab work, and continuous support from board-certified clinicians. To ensure patient confidence, they offer a 6-month money-back guarantee.

   Mochi Health provides a more flexible, app-based weight management program that can suit individual needs. Their approach involves working with board-certified obesity medicine providers and registered dietitians to create customized treatment plans, which may include weight loss medications. Through the Mochi Health app, users can track medication refills, communicate with their care team, schedule virtual visits, and manage their membership plans.

   Fella Health and Mochi Health both offer weight loss programs, but they differ in their approaches and target audiences. While both platforms offer medical supervision and personalized weight loss programs, Fella Health is focused on men’s health with a strong emphasis on behavioral coaching, whereas Mochi Health provides a tech-driven experience suitable for a wider audience.

3. Strut Health

   Strut Health offers personalized weight loss plans through compounded Semaglutide, an active ingredient found in medications like Wegovy®, Ozempic®, and Rybelsus®. The medication may help suppress your appetite and improve blood sugar control, which may support weight loss goals.

   You may choose between daily oral lozenges or once-weekly injections based on your preference. Strut Health also provides a free online consultation where licensed doctors may review your health conditions and create a custom treatment plan.

   As per the official site, Strut Health’s oral Semaglutide lozenge price range starts from $149 for a month’s supply, while injectable Semaglutide costs $289.

   Strut Health provides compounded Semaglutide, available as daily oral lozenges or weekly injections, focusing primarily on medications to aid weight loss. In contrast, Mochi Health features FDA-approved medications like Semaglutide and Tirzepatide with behavioral coaching and lifestyle modifications.

How Did We Evaluate Mochi Health?

1. Program Structure And Support

   We evaluated Mochi Health by examining the qualifications of its medical team, the accessibility of consultations, and the level of ongoing care provided. The platform connects users with board-certified obesity medicine providers who assess medical history, prescribe GLP-1 medications when appropriate, and monitor patient progress.

   During our evaluation, we found that Mochi Health ensures regular virtual check-ins to track results, adjust treatments, and address side effects. We also considered the role of registered dietitians in providing nutritional guidance alongside medication.

   Mochi Health offers personalized diet recommendations to complement GLP-1 therapy, focusing on sustainable weight loss strategies. The added support may help patients handle common medication effects, such as appetite suppression, and make necessary dietary adjustments.

   However, effectiveness may vary depending on how engaged users are with the program and whether they consistently attend follow-ups.

2. User Feedback And Reviews

   We evaluated Mochi Health by analyzing its user feedback from different sources. Many users shared positive experiences, particularly regarding weight loss outcomes with GLP-1 medications. During our evaluation, we also found that some users appreciated the convenience of virtual consultations, which allowed them to access board-certified doctors without the need for in-person visits. Some users also found the added support of registered dietitians helpful. However, some reported issues with communication, billing, and medication access may impact the experience for some users. Some users experienced difficulties with adjusting to the dosage of GLP-1 medications, stating that side effects like nausea or fatigue were stronger than expected. A few users experienced delays in receiving dose modifications when needed. Some users also expressed discomfort with self-injecting GLP-1 medications like Semaglutide and Tirzepatide, especially those who were new to injectable treatments.

3. Treatment Efficacy

   We evaluated Mochi Health’s treatment efficacy by analyzing its use of GLP-1 medications, such as Semaglutide and Tirzepatide. Clinical studies indicate that Semaglutide and Tirzepatide medications may help patients experience noticeable reductions in body weight over time.

   However, in our evaluation, we also considered potential challenges that might affect treatment efficacy. We found that some users experienced slower-than-expected weight loss, particularly in the early stages of GLP-1 treatment. We also looked for any side effects experienced by users, such as nausea, fatigue, and digestive issues.

   We reviewed both clinical data and real-world user experiences to assess how well Mochi Health’s program supports weight loss. While GLP-1 medications are backed by strong evidence, success may depend on individual response, provider accessibility, and user commitment to the recommended lifestyle changes.

4. Pricing And Accessibility

   We evaluated Mochi Health based on its pricing and accessibility. It offers a subscription model with a monthly membership fee of $69, which includes virtual consultations with board-certified doctors and registered dietitians. It also features 24/7 support for questions and assistance.

   During our evaluation, we found that the medication costs of Mochi Health were separate from the membership fees. Compounded GLP-1 medications cost $99 per month, while compounded GLP-1/GIP medications were $199 per month.

   For accessibility, we focused on the availability of Mochi Health online services within the U.S. We found that Mochi Health offers virtual care and other services in all 50 states in the USA. You may also get access to 24/7 assistance by phone, which may be especially helpful in case you have limited access to in-person clinics or prefer remote care.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Does Mochi Health Offer Personalized Health Plans?
   Based on your health conditions and requirements, the board-certified healthcare providers at Mochi Health may provide a customized plan. These plans may include dietary advice, GLP-1 medications, and lifestyle tips.
2. How Often Do I Meet With My Mochi Health Provider?
   You may get access to regular virtual check-ins offered by Mochi Health, typically every few weeks. The frequency of visits may depend on your treatment plan and progress. Mochi Health may also provide added support if needed.
3. Does Mochi Health Offer Support for Emotional Eating?
   When you opt for a weight loss program by Mochi Health, it may include guidance on emotional eating and behavioral habits. Providers and dietitians offer strategies to improve your relationship with food.
4. How Does Mochi Health Protect My Privacy?
   As per the makers, Mochi Health follows strict HIPAA guidelines to protect your online personal data and medical information. All data is securely stored and only shared with your Mochi Health care team. However, there is always a risk of data breaches on the internet.

Conclusion

Mochi Health may provide you with customizable weight loss plans, virtual consultations with board-certified doctors, and access to GLP-1 prescription medications, which may support your weight loss journey.

However, potential challenges include side effects from medications like Tirzepatide and Semaglutide, concerns with delivery, transparency, and the lack of in-person visits.

For suitable results, Mochi Health services should be taken with healthy lifestyle choices, such as a balanced diet, physical activity, and adequate sleep. This complete approach may improve long-term weight management and your well-being.