GLP-1 Meds and Weight-Loss Surgery Can Be Complementary

For women facing the challenges of obesity, there’s encouraging news—more treatments are available now than ever before. While bariatric (weight-loss) surgery has long been a trusted path, newer medications like Wegovy and Zepbound are expanding the possibilities. These GLP-1 medications are offering a nonsurgical alternative for some people and enhancing results for others, making it easier to achieve and maintain weightloss.

Obesity affects nearly 40 percent of women over 50, increasing the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and joint problems. As metabolism slows with age and hormonal changes occur, losing weight becomes more challenging. Studies show that even a 5 percent to 10 percent weight reduction can significantly improve blood pressure, cholesterol, and mobility in older women, enhancing quality of life and longevity. This makes interventions like weight-loss surgery and GLP-1 medications (semaglutide) welcome tools for managing obesity and reducing related health risks.

GLP-1 Medications

What exactly are GLP-1 medications? These medications, which are injected once a week, are designed to mimic hormones in the body that help control blood sugar and reduce hunger. Initially developed to treat diabetes, these drugs are now widely recognized for their ability to support weight loss in individuals without diabetes. However, like any medication, they have limitations, including high cost, potential side effects, and limited supply. Despite these hurdles, their popularity is growing. A recent study highlighted a surge in the use of GLP-1 medications. Researchers found that from 2022 to 2023, the use of these medications more than doubled among privately insured patients with obesity. This coincided with a drop in bariatric surgery rates by about 25 percent. While surgery remains the most effective and long-lasting option for many people, these findings reveal a shift in how obesity is being treated. “GLP-1s are new, so they’re being applied widely and with a high degree of success, but it’s important to recognize that they will not be a good fit for everyone,” says Gregory Dakin, MD, Weill Cornell Medicine, Surgery Director, Metabolic, & Bariatric Surgery.

Weight-Loss Surgery

For women with more complex medical needs or those seeking a highly effective, durable solution, surgery remains a valid option. “There is certainly a role for both surgery and GLP-1s, but surgery is probably ultimately still going to be more appropriate for the people with more severe obesity,” says Dr. Dakin.

The most common and effective weight-loss surgery is the gastric sleeve, though gastric bypass is also still widely used. Just as medical weight management is evolving, so is weight-loss surgery. “There are new procedures on the horizon that are less invasive and have fewer side effects and risks,” says Dr. Dakin.

Patient Choice

Patient choice is a critical part of the equation. “There are people who are good candidates for surgery but are not interested in undergoing a surgical procedure. Likewise, there are people who are unwilling to use GLP-1 medications,” says Dr. Dakin. “A common reason people seek out weight-lose surgery is to possibly get off of their diabetes and/or high blood pressure medications. These people do not see another medication as the answer for them,” he says.

Surgery and Medication

For women who have previously undergone bariatric surgery, GLP-1 medications can be a valuable tool for weight management. Surgery often provides a significant initial weight loss, but maintaining that weight loss long-term can be challenging. These medications can help by providing ongoing support, particularly if weight regain becomes an issue. This combination approach ensures that women have multiple strategies to manage their weight effectively over time. “It is great to have anti-obesity medications available to patients who have had surgery and have reached a plateau in their weight loss. It’s also a very good option to have for patients who have had surgery some years ago and have regained some weight and need help,” says Dr. Dakin.

The first step on the path to obesity treatment starts with a consultation with a health-care provider. This professional can help you consider the benefits and risks of each approach, and evaluate your medical history, lifestyle, and personal preferences.

The post GLP-1 Meds and Weight-Loss Surgery Can Be Complementary appeared first on University Health News.

Read Original Article: GLP-1 Meds and Weight-Loss Surgery Can Be Complementary »