HCG Weight Loss Program
This program was originally developed over 50 years ago by Dr. ATW Simeons, a British physician. He obtained significant results by using injectable HCG along with a strict 500 calorie diet. This approach fell out of use and reappeared some years ago, it has been used by many clinicians with good results.
Larry Vickman M.D. of Inches and Pounds of Tampa Bay has revised this program offering it at a level of 800 calories, which is safer for patients. Additionally patients may continue using previously prescribed medications. Through careful examination and analysis, we will determine which treatment is right for you. A full explanation of the HCG program will be provided to you in our patient handbook.
We use only pharmaceutical grade HCG that is compounded by a local pharmacy. The initial visit includes a history, examination, lab work, EKG, body fat analysis, education and training in the HCG diet, vitamins, and access to our HCG guide which includes a cookbook. The HCG kit, other supplements and injections are at an additional cost. The initial phase of the diet lasts about six weeks; weight loss varies but can be upwards of 20 pounds. Visits to our office during this program are weekly.
The FDA has published the following statement that relates to the use of HCG diets:
These weight reduction treatments include the injection of HCG, a drug which has not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration as safe and effective in the treatment of obesity for weight control. There is no substantial evidence that HCG increases weight loss beyond that resulting from caloric restriction, that it causes a more attractive or "normal" distribution of fat, or that it decreases the hunger and discomfort associated with calorie-restrictive diets. The use of HCG is this particular program is an off-label use of the drug.
