Plenity Weight Loss Review: Does It Really Work?

If you’re looking for a weight loss solution that doesn’t involve stimulants or drugs, Plenity might be worth considering. Plenity is an FDA-approved weight loss product that comes in the form of a hydrogel, which fills your stomach with cellulose and citric acid, thus curbing your appetite.

When used in conjunction with diet and exercise, Plenity is indicated to aid weight management in adults with excess weight or obesity, a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 25-40 kg/m².

According to Consumer Health Digest, Plenity has received mixed reviews from users. Some people have reported significant weight loss, while others have experienced side effects like extreme constipation.

Two user reviews on WebMD rank the product 2.3 out of 5 stars, with one person writing that the product resulted in 8 pounds of weight loss but caused extreme constipation, and another writing that they didn’t notice any difference in their appetite or weight.

Before deciding whether Plenity is right for you, it’s important to weigh the potential benefits against the risks and side effects. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at Plenity and review what the research says about its effectiveness and safety.

We’ll also examine user reviews and discuss the pros and cons of using Plenity as a weight loss aid.

What is Plenity?

If you’re looking for a weight loss aid that doesn’t involve surgery or medication, Plenity may be an option worth considering. Plenity is an FDA-cleared weight loss aid designed to help adults with a body mass index (BMI) of 25 to 40 kg/m feel fuller sooner and eat less.

Unlike other weight loss aids, Plenity is not a medication or supplement, but rather a medical device that is taken orally.

Plenity is made up of two naturally occurring substances: cellulose and citric acid. When taken with water before a meal, Plenity forms a hydrogel in the stomach that takes up space and makes you feel fuller sooner. This can help you eat less and ultimately lose weight.

According to a review by Forbes Health, Plenity has been shown to be effective in clinical trials. In one study, participants who took Plenity lost an average of 6.4% of their body weight over the course of six months.

In another study, participants who took Plenity lost an average of 10% of their body weight over the course of 12 months.

How does Plenity work?

If you’re struggling to lose weight, Plenity may be a solution for you. Plenity is an FDA-cleared weight management device that is designed to help you feel fuller, so you eat less and lose weight.

Unlike other weight loss medications, Plenity is not absorbed into your body, so it does not enter your bloodstream or affect your brain. Instead, it works by targeting your gastrointestinal tract to help you feel fuller.

Plenity is made from natural building blocks cellulose and citric acid. When taken before meals, the medication forms a hydrogel that fills your stomach, making you feel fuller and more satisfied with less food. The hydrogel is then broken down and eliminated from your body through natural means.

According to studies, Plenity can help you lose weight when used in conjunction with diet and exercise. In a clinical trial, people who took Plenity lost an average of 6.4% of their body weight over six months, while those who took a placebo lost an average of 4.4% of their body weight.

Additionally, 59% of people who took Plenity lost at least 5% of their body weight, compared to 42% of those who took a placebo.

Plenity is available by prescription via a telehealth appointment with a healthcare provider. It is important to note that Plenity is not a magic pill and should be used in conjunction with a healthy diet and exercise plan for best results.

It is also not recommended for people with a BMI of less than 25 or those with a history of gastrointestinal obstruction or perforation.

Plenity Clinical Studies

Study 1: Efficacy and Safety of Plenity in Overweight and Obese Adults

According to a study published in the American Family Physician, Plenity demonstrated significant efficacy in aiding weight loss in overweight and obese adults with a body mass index (BMI) of 25 to 40 kg/m.

The study included 436 participants who were randomly assigned to receive either Plenity or a placebo. Participants took Plenity or the placebo twice daily before lunch and dinner for 24 weeks. 

The study found that significantly more patients treated with Plenity achieved a weight loss of at least 5% compared to those who received the placebo (59% vs. 42%). Additionally, 27% of patients treated with Plenity lost at least 10% of their body weight compared to 15% of those who received the placebo.

Plenity was also well-tolerated by patients, with the most common adverse events being gastrointestinal-related, such as diarrhea, nausea, and abdominal pain. However, these side effects were generally mild and temporary.

Study 2: Plenity for Weight Loss in Overweight and Obese Adults with Controlled Hypertension and/or Diabetes

Another study published in Clinical Diabetes evaluated the effectiveness of Plenity in aiding weight loss in overweight and obese adults with controlled hypertension and/or diabetes.

The study included 223 participants who were randomly assigned to receive either Plenity or a placebo. Participants took Plenity or the placebo twice daily before lunch and dinner for 24 weeks.

The study found that participants who received Plenity had a significantly greater weight loss compared to those who received the placebo (6.4% vs. 4.4%). Additionally, Plenity was well-tolerated by patients, with no serious adverse events reported.

Overall, these clinical studies suggest that Plenity may be an effective and safe weight loss aid for overweight and obese adults. However, it is important to note that individual results may vary and that Plenity should be used in conjunction with a healthy diet and exercise regimen.

Plenity Side Effects

If you’re considering Plenity as a weight loss aid, it’s important to be aware of the potential side effects. While Plenity is generally well-tolerated, some users may experience side effects that can range from mild to severe.

According to a small clinical trial sponsored by the company, the most commonly reported side effects among Plenity users were diarrhea, flatulence, infrequent bowel movements, and abdominal pain. Other potential side effects include constipation, nausea, bloating, fullness, and feeling dehydrated.

It’s worth noting that everyone reacts differently to weight loss aids, and some people may experience more severe side effects than others. If you’re concerned about the potential side effects of Plenity, it’s important to talk to your doctor before starting treatment.

That being said, it’s worth noting that the side effects of Plenity are generally mild and temporary. In the clinical trial, most side effects resolved on their own within a few days or weeks. If you experience any severe or persistent side effects, however, it’s important to seek medical attention right away.

In summary, while Plenity can be an effective weight loss aid for some people, it’s important to be aware of the potential side effects before starting treatment. Talk to your doctor to determine if Plenity is right for you, and be sure to report any side effects you experience during treatment.

Who Can Take Plenity?

If you’re considering Plenity as a weight loss option, it’s important to know who can take it. According to Forbes Health, Plenity is a great option for adults living with extra weight or obesity (with BMIs between 25 and 40) and can be a great option for those who don’t qualify for other weight loss treatments.

Plenity is not intended for everyone, however. It is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women, children under the age of 18, or those with gastrointestinal disorders or a history of bowel obstruction. Additionally, Plenity is not suitable for those with a BMI below 25 or above 40.

It’s important to speak with your healthcare provider before starting Plenity to determine if it’s the right weight loss option for you. Your healthcare provider can evaluate your medical history, current medications, and overall health to determine if Plenity is safe and appropriate for you.

Benefits of Plenity

If you’re struggling with weight loss, Plenity may be a great option for you. Here are some of the benefits of using Plenity:

  • Plenity is made from natural ingredients, making it a safer option for those who may be sensitive to harsh chemicals or medications.
  • Plenity is non-invasive, meaning it doesn’t require any surgery or invasive procedures.
  • Plenity can help you feel more full naturally, which can lead to eating less and ultimately losing weight.
  • Studies have shown that Plenity can lead to clinically meaningful weight loss when combined with diet and exercise.
  • Plenity has a good safety profile, making it a helpful option for those who are looking for a safe and effective way to lose weight.

Overall, Plenity can be a great option for those who are struggling with weight loss and are looking for a natural, non-invasive solution. Talk to your doctor to see if Plenity is right for you.

Plenity Cost and Availability

If you’re considering Plenity as a weight loss aid, you may be wondering about its cost and availability. According to the official Plenity website, the cost of Plenity is $98 for a month’s supply, or about $2 per meal. However, you can save up to 15% by buying a 12-week supply of Plenity for $249.

Plenity is available by prescription only, so you’ll need to consult with your healthcare provider to see if it’s right for you. Once you have a prescription, you can order Plenity directly from the official website. Shipping is free, and your pills will arrive each month on an auto-renew plan.

It’s worth noting that Plenity is not covered by insurance, so you’ll need to pay for it out of pocket. However, the makers of Plenity offer a savings program that can help offset some of the cost. According to the Plenity website, you may be eligible for savings of up to $75 per month, depending on your insurance coverage.

Overall, while Plenity may be more expensive than some other weight loss aids, it may be worth considering if you’re struggling to lose weight through diet and exercise alone. Just be sure to talk to your healthcare provider first to see if it’s a good fit for you.

Plenity vs. Other Weight Loss Methods

If you are considering Plenity as a weight loss aid, you may be wondering how it compares to other weight loss methods. Plenity is unique in that it is not a drug and does not get absorbed into your body. Instead, it is made from cellulose and citric acid and works by swelling in your stomach to make you feel fuller.

Compared to other weight loss drugs, Plenity has a lower risk of side effects because it is not absorbed into your body. It also does not require a prescription and is available over the counter. However, it may not be as effective for people with a BMI over 40 or those who are looking for rapid weight loss.

Other weight loss methods include diet and exercise, weight loss surgery, and prescription weight loss drugs. Diet and exercise are generally considered the safest and most effective way to lose weight, but they require discipline and may not work for everyone.

Weight loss surgery is an option for people with a BMI over 40, but it carries risks and requires a significant lifestyle change. Prescription weight loss drugs can be effective, but they also carry risks and may not be suitable for everyone.

When deciding on a weight loss method, it is important to consider your individual needs and preferences. Plenity may be a good option for people who want a safe, non-drug weight loss aid that is easy to use and does not require a prescription.

However, it may not be as effective for people with a higher BMI or those who are looking for rapid weight loss. Ultimately, the best weight loss method is one that you can stick to and that works for your individual needs.

Conclusion – Is It Worth It?

If you’re looking for a weight loss aid that is non-invasive and has a good safety profile, Plenity may be a helpful option for you. The product has been approved by the FDA for weight loss and has undergone studies to prove its effectiveness.

According to a study funded by Gelesism, those who took Plenity lost 6.4% of their baseline weight compared to 4.4% in the placebo group. Patients with diabetes or pre-diabetes were six times more likely to lose over 10% of their body weight.

However, it’s important to note that Plenity is not a magic pill. It is designed to be used as a supplement to a healthy diet and lifestyle plan.

Writer Melissa Mitri, MS, RD, concludes that “Plenity could serve as a supplement to a healthy diet and lifestyle plan.” This means that you still need to make healthy choices and exercise regularly to see the best results.

Additionally, Plenity may not be the best option for everyone. The product is designed for adults living with extra weight or obesity with BMIs between 25 and 40. If you don’t fall within this range or have other health conditions, it’s important to talk to your doctor before taking Plenity.

Overall, Plenity may be worth it if you’re looking for a safe and non-invasive weight loss aid to supplement your healthy lifestyle. However, it’s important to remember that Plenity is not a substitute for healthy choices and exercise. Talk to your doctor to determine if Plenity is the right option for you.

FAQ

What is Plenity?

Plenity is a weight loss aid that is indicated for use in adults with excess weight or obesity and a BMI of 25-40 kg/m². It is not a drug but rather a medical device that works by helping you feel full and eat less.

How does Plenity work?

Plenity is made from naturally derived materials and works by absorbing water in your stomach and forming a gel-like substance.

This gel takes up space in your stomach, helping you feel full and eat less. It is important to note that Plenity is not absorbed into your body and does not affect the absorption of nutrients.

Is Plenity safe?

Plenity has been clinically tested and is FDA-approved for weight loss in adults with excess weight or obesity. However, like any medical device, it does come with some risks.

The most common side effects include gastrointestinal issues such as diarrhea, nausea, and abdominal pain. If you experience any severe side effects, you should contact your healthcare provider immediately.

How is Plenity taken?

Plenity is taken orally with water before lunch and dinner. It is important to drink plenty of water with Plenity to ensure it works properly. You should also avoid taking Plenity with hot drinks or food, as this may affect its ability to form a gel in your stomach.

How much weight can I expect to lose with Plenity?

According to clinical studies, adults who took Plenity in conjunction with diet and exercise lost an average of 6.4% of their baseline weight. However, individual results may vary and it is important to remember that Plenity is not a magic pill for weight loss.

It is intended to be used as part of a comprehensive weight loss plan.

Can I take Plenity if I have a medical condition?

Before taking Plenity, you should talk to your healthcare provider to make sure it is safe for you. Plenity is not recommended for use in individuals with gastrointestinal disorders, such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, or those who have had gastrointestinal surgery.

It is also important to note that Plenity may affect the absorption of medications, so you should talk to your healthcare provider if you are taking any medications.

References

  1. About Plenity®. (n.d.). Plenity. https://www.myplenity.com/about
  2. Cellulose and Citric Acid (Plenity) for Weight Management in Overweight and Obese Adults – PubMed. (2022, March 1). PubMed. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35289564/
  3. Are weight-loss drugs worth trying? – Harvard Health. (2015, November 18). Harvard Health. https://www.health.harvard.edu
  4. Benefits and Risks of Bariatric Surgery in Adults: A Review – PubMed. (2020, September 1). PubMed. https://doi.org/10.1001/jama.2020.12567
  5. Diet and exercise for weight loss: a review of current issues – PubMed. (2005, January 1). PubMed. https://doi.org/10.2165/00007256-200535010-00001
  6. Giruzzi, N. (n.d.). Plenity (Oral Superabsorbent Hydrogel). PubMed Central (PMC). https://doi.org/10.2337/cd20-0032
  7. Giruzzi, N. (n.d.). Plenity (Oral Superabsorbent Hydrogel). PubMed Central (PMC). https://doi.org/10.2337/cd20-0032
  8. Plenity Weight Loss Review. (n.d.). Google Docs. https://docs.google.com/document/d/1e2MgpbJQkwNZUSnmHJBDa-FLoUdKRui3e81PnWGpKWo/edit?usp=embed_facebook
  9. Plenity® | Choose a Prescriber. (n.d.). Plenity. https://www.myplenity.com/first-step
  10. Plenity® | FDA-Cleared Weight Management Aid. (n.d.). Plenity. https://www.myplenity.com/
  11. Plenity® Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ). (n.d.). Plenity. https://www.myplenity.com/faq
  12. Surgical Options In the Treatment of Severe Obesity – PubMed. (2023, January 1). PubMed. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35015397/
  13. The best drug supplement for obesity treatment: a systematic review and network meta-analysis – PubMed. (2021, October 18). PubMed. https://doi.org/10.1186/s13098-021-00733-5
  14. What role for weight-loss medication? Weighing the pros and cons for obese patients – PubMed. (2004, January 1). PubMed. https://doi.org/10.3810/pgm.2004.01.1410

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Author

  • Dorothy Magos, (RND)

    Dorothy, a Registered Nutritionist-Dietitian, is currently pursuing a master’s degree in Public Health (MPH), with a major in Public Health Nutrition. Her enthusiasm for imparting knowledge about food, nutrition, and health is evident through her love for teaching university students. Apart from this, she has a keen interest in coffee, traveling, writing, cycling, running, cooking, and baking. Education: Silliman University Master of Public Health (MPH), Public Health Nutrition (2018-2022), Silliman University Bachelor of Science (BS), Nutrition and Dietetics (2010-2014)


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