We’ve all been there—trying every diet, counting calories, squeezing in those extra steps—only to feel like we’re not making progress on the scale. It’s frustrating, right? If you’ve been wondering if there’s a better way to jump-start your weight loss journey, you’re not alone.
With new advances in weight loss medications, many people are asking, “Could this be the boost I need?” In this article, Dr. Toghrul Talishinskiy, Director of Minimally Invasive and Robotic Surgery and a bariatric surgeon at St. Joseph’s Health, helps you explore whether now might be the right time to talk to your doctor about medication as a part of your weight loss strategy. But there’s something important to consider: while weight loss medications can provide initial help, when it comes to lasting, long-term results, surgery may offer a more durable solution.
What Are Weight Loss Medications?
Weight loss medications, or prescription drugs, assist with weight loss by affecting how the body processes food, stores fat, or burns calories. The FDA has approved medications like semaglutide (prescribed under the brand names Ozempic, Wegovy, and Zepbound) for weight management, but these medications are not a cure-all.
Dr. Talishinskiy explains, “Medications are not a one-size-fits-all solution. They are often used in conjunction with diet and exercise to maximize results. But it’s important to talk to your doctor about your specific health profile and goals so they can help you choose the right approach.”
How Do Weight Loss Medications Work?
These medications can work in different ways. Some help suppress appetite, while others affect how the body absorbs or burns fat. For example, semaglutide works by regulating appetite, making it easier for people to reduce their calorie intake.
Studies have shown that people taking semaglutide and staying active can lose about 10% of their body weight in 12 weeks. However, the results from weight loss medications tend to be temporary. While they can provide a helpful jump-start, the long-term sustainability of these medications remains uncertain for many people. This is where surgical options, like bariatric surgery, offer a more reliable, long-lasting solution.
When Should I Consider Weight Loss Medications?
For most people, weight loss can be achieved through a healthy combination of diet and exercise. But in some cases, weight loss medications might be an appropriate option, especially if you meet certain criteria:
- Your BMI is Over 30: If your BMI is 30 or higher, you may be a candidate for weight loss medications. However, medications are most effective when used alongside lifestyle changes. And for people with severe obesity, surgery may ultimately offer more durable, long-term results.
- You’ve Tried Lifestyle Changes Without Success: If you’ve been following a healthy diet and exercise routine but still struggle to lose weight, medications might offer some initial help. However, it’s important to understand that without permanent lifestyle changes, long-term weight loss can be difficult to maintain.
- You Have Obesity-Related Health Conditions: Weight-related health conditions such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and sleep apnea can often be improved by weight loss medications. But for individuals with more severe health concerns, bariatric surgery might provide more substantial and lasting health improvements.
- You Are Ready for a Long-Term Commitment: Weight loss medications require ongoing commitment to a comprehensive plan that includes diet, exercise, and regular medical monitoring. If you’re committed to sustained weight loss, it’s worth discussing your options with your doctor, including the possibility of surgical options for more long-lasting results.
What to Expect: Common Side Effects
While weight loss medications like semaglutide can be effective, they can come with side effects. These may include nausea, diarrhea, constipation, or fatigue. It’s crucial to discuss potential side effects with your doctor before starting any new medication.
The FDA ensures that weight loss medications meet safety and efficacy standards, but regular follow-ups with your doctor are necessary to manage any adverse effects.
Prescription Medication and Your Treatment Plan
It’s important to view weight loss medications as part of an overall treatment plan. If you have other health conditions, such as heart disease, your doctor may adjust medication doses or suggest additional monitoring to ensure safety. However, in many cases, medications alone won’t provide the lasting results you might need. Bariatric surgery, on the other hand, can offer more durable and sustained weight loss outcomes, especially for those who are severely overweight or have chronic health issues related to obesity.
The Importance of Professional Guidance
While the allure of quick fixes is strong, professional guidance is critical when considering weight loss options. Your doctor will help assess your overall health, medical history, and long-term weight loss goals to recommend the best approach.
The FDA emphasizes that weight loss medications should never replace healthy eating or physical activity. Rather, the medications are most effective when combined with a sustainable lifestyle, and in some cases, even with bariatric surgery to achieve lasting results.
Is Now the Right Time?
If you’ve been struggling with your weight despite efforts to improve your diet and exercise habits, now might be the time to explore additional options. Talking to your doctor about weight loss medications could be a step in the right direction, especially if you’re dealing with related health conditions like high blood pressure or diabetes.
But remember, weight loss medications are not a one-size-fits-all solution, and the results may not be lasting for everyone. If you’re looking for a more permanent and durable solution, surgery might provide the long-term benefits you’re seeking.
Final Thoughts
Before deciding whether weight loss medication is the right option for you, it’s important to understand how these drugs work and the potential risks involved. While medications can offer short-term support, they often fall short when it comes to maintaining weight loss long-term. For those who need more significant and lasting results, bariatric surgery may offer a more sustainable solution.
If you believe that now is the time to explore weight loss options as part of your journey to better health, Dr. Talishinskiy and his team are here to guide you. St. Joseph’s physician-led weight loss program includes medication, monitoring, nutrition programs, and lifestyle recommendations—and, should additional steps be necessary, surgical options are available with some of the best outcomes in the nation.
Contact Dr. Talishinskiy’s office at St. Joseph’s Health today to schedule a consultation and take the next step toward achieving your weight loss goals.
