Taking the first steps on your weight management journey can be an empowering experience. Whether you're focused on achieving your ideal weight or addressing health concerns associated with excess weight, the available tools for support offer a pathway toward success. Recently, there has been a lot of attention focused on weight loss resulting from diabetes medications like Ozempic, Trulicity and Mounjaro. Although those medications have not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for chronic weight management, other GLP-1 medications have, including Wegovy and Zepbound.
Integrating weight-loss drugs into your wellness regimen requires thoughtful deliberation and consultation with a healthcare professional. So, how exactly do these medications work, and are they viable options for you?
What Are GLP-1 Weight-Loss Drugs and How Do They Work?
Weight-loss drugs are medications designed to aid in weight management by targeting various mechanisms in the body that regulate blood sugar, appetite, metabolism and fat absorption. These drugs work in different ways, such as suppressing appetite, increasing feelings of fullness or reducing the absorption of fat in the digestive system.
Common GLP-1 receptor agonist medications include:
- Semaglutide medications, including Ozempic and Wegovy
- Tirzepatide medications, including Mounjaro and Zepbound
- Liraglutide medications, including Saxenda and Victoza
When considering weight-loss drugs, it's natural to feel overwhelmed by the multitude of brand names. Rest assured that your provider will be well-informed on these medications and will recommend the most suitable option.
“Navigating the world of weight-loss medications can be overwhelming due to the array of brand names, but rest assured, your provider has the right knowledge to take you down the right path,” says Dr. Yvette-Marie Pellegrino, a board-certified obesity medicine specialist with Beaufort Memorial Lady’s Island Internal Medicine. “The decision to incorporate medications into a wellness plan should be approached with careful consideration.”
Read More: A Healthier Path to Weight Loss
Approved Purposes of Weight-Loss Drugs
The Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) stringent guidelines prioritize the safety and efficacy of medications. Weight loss drugs are approved for specific purposes, such as treating obesity or certain weight-related conditions like Type 2 diabetes. While these drugs can be beneficial when used as part of a comprehensive weight management plan, it is essential to adhere to prescribed guidelines and closely monitor any potential side effects or risks.
While semaglutide medications (as well as dulaglutide medications like Trulicity) have demonstrated effectiveness in treating obesity in addition to the management of Type 2 diabetes, they are not specifically indicated solely for weight loss purposes. At this time, only Saxenda, Wegovy, Zepbound and a small number of other weight-loss drugs (Contrave, Xenical, Alli, Qsymia and Imcivree) have been approved by the FDA for long-term use in weight management.
Ozempic and Wegovy: Hype or Helpful?
Prescribed as a once-weekly injectable medication by healthcare providers, Ozempic helps regulate blood sugar levels by simulating the action of a hormone known as GLP-1. By acting on areas of the brain that control appetite and food intake, Ozempic helps you feel full longer, so you eat less. At this time, Ozempic has not been approved for use as a weight-loss medication.
Wegovy, a higher dose semaglutide formulation, is specifically designed for weight loss, unlike Ozempic, which was approved to treat Type 2 diabetes. Despite their similar composition, Wegovy's stronger dose makes it particularly suitable for those struggling with excess weight or obesity.
Like any medication, Ozempic, Wegovy and other forms of weight-loss drugs are not a magic solution, and sustainable results require a commitment to a balanced lifestyle.
Read More: Physician-Supervised Weight Loss Program
Potential Risks and Side Effects
Like any medication, weight loss medications come with potential risks and side effects that should be carefully considered before starting treatment. The side effects vary depending on the type of medication, but common side effects of weight-loss drugs may include:
- Changes in blood pressure
- Dizziness and fatigue
- Gastrointestinal issues
- Headaches
Whether considering the use of GLP-1 agonists or other medications, it is crucial to consult with your healthcare provider to determine the most suitable approach for your weight management journey. Remember, your health and well-being are top priorities on this path to achieving your weight-related goals.
“It is essential to understand that the role of weight loss drugs is not to serve as a standalone solution,” Dr. Pellegrino says. “These drugs should complement a holistic approach to weight management, which includes lifestyle modifications like healthy eating habits and regular physical activity.”
Dispelling Myths and Misconceptions
Misconceptions about weight-loss drugs are abundant and can mislead people seeking reliable information.
Some common myths regarding weight-loss medications include:
- Myth 1: Weight-loss drugs are a magic solution that requires no effort or lifestyle changes. In reality, weight-loss drugs are intended to be used in conjunction with lifestyle modifications, such as a healthy diet and regular exercise, to maximize their effectiveness.
- Myth 2: Weight-loss drugs are unsafe and carry numerous serious side effects. While all medications come with potential risks and possible side effects, when used as prescribed under healthcare supervision, weight-loss medications are generally safe and well-tolerated by most individuals.
- Myth 3: Once you stop taking these drugs, the lost weight will immediately return. When accompanied by sustainable lifestyle changes, weight loss achieved with medication can be maintained even after discontinuing the drug, although individual results may vary.
- Myth 4: All weight loss medications work the same for everyone and yield identical results. The effectiveness of these medications can vary from person to person, and how you respond to these medications may differ based on factors such as genetics.
It is essential to separate fact from fiction when considering weight-loss drugs as part of your wellness journey. Understanding the realities behind these myths can help you make informed decisions about your health and weight management goals.
Talk with your primary care provider about weight loss options that are right for you. If you need a provider, find one accepting new patients.
