MANAGING THE OPTIFAST VLCD PROGRAM

Yes, the program is designed to be flexible and to result in the maximum desired amount of weight loss for your patient. Most of the research shows that an individual can safely follow a VLCD program and be in ketosis for up to 12 weeks. However, if your patient still has further weight to lose at the end of the 12 weeks you can keep them on the Intensive phase a little longer. It is very important however that this be done under medical supervision. Alternatively, if there is still a significant amount of weight to be lost at the end of the 12 week Intensive phase they can follow the Transition phase for a period of 2 weeks before re-commencing the Intensive phase again. Alternatively, transition and continue on Transition phase which may result in a slower weight loss compared to the Intensive phase.

On the OPTIFAST® VLCD™ Program, the Intensive phase is generally up to 12 weeks, however, there might be times when you should transition your patient to the next phase sooner. You should only transition sooner if they have lost enough weight on the Intensive phase that they are no longer considered overweight. Don’t transition sooner if they are experiencing some minor side-effects such as headaches, Diarrhea or constipation. These are normal side effects, especially during the first 3 days of the program, are usually transient and can be easily managed.

Yes, for example some people may choose to start on the Transition phase of the OPTIFAST® VLCD™ Program. The Transition phase is suitable for people who still require significant weight loss, but prefer to start with replacing two meals per day with an OPTIFAST® VLCD™ product and slowly build up rather than a VLCD, whereby replacing all 3 meals with an OPTIFAST® VLCD™ product.

It is important that patients follow the OPTIFAST® VLCD™ Program strictly to achieve optimum results; however some individuals may require extra protein. Males and individuals requiring a higher protein intake than 0.75g/ kg adjusted IBW per day may require four OPTIFAST® VLCD™ products per day, or three plus an extra serve of protein to meet protein requirements . One serve of protein is equivalent to 65-100g meat, 2 eggs or 130g fish and is usually added to the evening vegetables. It should be noted that for intakes greater than 3 sachets per day of OPTIFAST® VLCD™, calorie intake may increase higher than 800 calories.

In addition, you can recommend that patients use extras from the Additional Allowance list to help with compliance.