- Weight loss
How do doctors view weight loss medication?
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Want to lose weight? Tried every diet and lifestyle change you can think of? Scared to try weight loss medication? Weight loss medications can give people who are overweight or obese a better chance of reaching their weight loss goals if all other methods of weight loss have not worked. Are you wondering about the pros and cons of weight loss medications? The Internet is a great source of information. But with so much information it can feel overwhelming to sort credible sources from those that are poorly researched or inaccurate. In this article, we take a closer look at what the medical community says about weight loss drugs.
Weight loss medication is not suitable for everyone. It is used to aid weight loss in people who are considered obese (BMI greater than or equal to 30). For those who are overweight (BMI of 25 to 29.9) with weight-related risk factors, weight loss medication may also be an option. BMI is not the only factor that is used to decide on treatment. Other factors are also considered, including:
- Lifestyle choices: like diet, physical activity or emotional stress.
- Weight loss goal: is weight loss indicated for health reasons or does a someone have personal motivations to lose weight (for example, wanting to go to the beach without being ashamed or wishing to be able to lift children or grandchildren again)?
- Comorbidity: the occurrence of two or more health issues at the same time.
Dr. Angela Eden (MD, MA, Mbus, PhD) has extensive experience in treating patients with weight problems. She does not prescribe a weight loss medication as a first-line or standalone treatment, but rather as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes nutrition, physical activity and lifestyle modifications, such as improving sleep hygiene. What’s more, weight loss medication is only considered when other methods to lose weight have been ineffective.
How do weight loss medications work?
Weight loss medications work in different ways depending on the drug. Some alter the brain’s appetite signals to reduce appetite or make you feel fuller sooner. This indirectly reduces a person’s calorie intake. Some medications inhibit the absorption of fats. Weight loss happens when the body is in a calorie deficit, meaning you're expending more calories than you consume. Before deciding on whether or not to include weight loss medication in a treatment plan, a doctor will assess your personal situation. The choice of the medication depends on factors such as the type of overweight or obesity, health conditions affecting the patient, earlier weight loss attempts or failure to achieve weight loss with other methods.
Possible side effects
Doctors also take into consideration the impact of possible side effects. Does the patient have a health condition that requires medication? Some weight loss medications may interact with certain medicines or exacerbate side effects. Each weight loss treatment works differently and the side effects may vary, too. Common side effects of weight loss medications include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Constipation
- Stomach pain
- Headache
- Fatigue
The side effects are usually mild and manageable. Most side effects will diminish or disappear over time. Severe side effects are rare if the medicine is being taken at the proper dose and carefully administered. If you experience severe side effects, please contact a medical professional.
Advice for those considering weight loss medication
Are you struggling to lose weight and thinking about weight loss medication? It is important that you speak to a doctor before you start using a medication. Weight loss medications should be used under the supervision of a healthcare professional. They should only be used when other efforts to lose weight have failed and after medical evaluation. It is also important that a doctor designs your treatment plan and monitors your progress along the way so that dosage adjustments can be made, if necessary. For optimal results, weight loss medications should be used in conjunction with lifestyle modifications, such as a nutritious diet and regular physical activity.
The importance of dietary and lifestyle changes
Without lifestyle changes, weight loss medications can only go so far. Doctors advise adopting a healthy lifestyle, which should include:
- Conscious and healthy food choices: eat smaller portions and light meals that contain all the nutrients your body needs. Opt for unprocessed foods like fruit and vegetables, and select products that are low on salt and sugar.
- Regular exercise and strength training: combine cardio with weight training for optimal results. It is recommended to do at least 150 minutes of exercise throughout the week.
- Good quality sleep: a good night’s sleep gives the body a chance to repair and regenerate from the day. Poor sleep can lower your metabolism, making it harder to burn calories. Prioritising quality sleep can also reduce the urge for late-night snacks.
How to stop taking your medication
What happens when you want to stop using weight loss medication? Doctors advise against stopping weight loss medications abruptly and instead suggest a slow, supervised withdrawal. Stopping abruptly may cause withdrawal symptoms. Some people may regain weight after quitting abruptly, especially when diet and lifestyle changes are not adhered to. Making diet and lifestyle changes can be challenging. Are you struggling? Get support from a lifestyle coach. And make sure to contact a doctor if you want to stop taking your medication.
Conclusion
Most doctors embrace weight loss medications as an effective and proper means of treatment for people who are overweight or obese and struggling to lose weight. Weight loss medications can support healthy weight loss alongside lifestyle interventions, such as a reduced-calorie diet and exercise programme. Are you currently struggling to lose weight? Doctoronline’s team of affiliated doctors can create a treatment plan that meets your needs.