New Weight Loss Wonder Drug

Semaglutides are a type of medication used to help people lose weight and control blood glucose levels. It works by mimicking the effects of a hormone called GLP-1, which helps to regulate appetite and glucose metabolism. Two semaglutide medications approved by the TGA are Ozempic (for diabetes) and WeGovy (for weight loss). WeGovy is yet to be made available in Australia but is expected in 2023.

Ozempic is a weekly injection starting at a dosage of 0.25mg, which can be titrated up to 2.0mg per week over a matter of months. WeGovy is similar, however, can be titrated up to a stronger dose of 2.4mg. Both medications have been found to be effective in helping people lose weight.

In clinical trials, a dosage of 2.4mg of semaglutide medication resulted in an average weight loss of 15.3kg over a 68-week period. In addition to weight loss, there were improvements in cardiometabolic risk factors also. However, it is important to note that weight loss results can vary from person to person and that both Ozempic and WeGovy should be used in combination with a healthy diet and regular exercise for optimal results.

One of the mechanisms of these medications that drive weight loss is the reduction in appetite. Common side effects include nausea and diarrhea, although for most people these were mild and improved over time. For most people, if you are eating less food you will lose weight, however, without swapping to healthier, more nutrient-dense food choices and increasing exercise, your results will be curbed.

The trials for these medications were all used in conjunction with healthy eating and exercise. For most people, diet and exercise alone tend to only achieve modest weight loss results. When combined with these potent appetite suppressants, impressive weight loss results were achieved, demonstrating the impact hunger has on our weight loss efforts.

The Verdict:

Obesity is a disease that requires more than just self-discipline for long-term results. The drivers of our current obesity epidemic (predicted to cost Australia $87.7 Billion by 2032) are multifaceted. The origins of obesity are environmental, hormonal, genetic, psychological and lifestyle. We need to use whatever safe tools we can to address this obesity crisis. Drugs like Ozempic and WeGovy are a welcome addition that can form part of the artillery in the fight against obesity.

Conclusion:

Are these drugs the silver bullet that allows us to eat whatever we want and not exercise, yet still successfully lose weight? DEFINITELY NOT! They are a tool that can support the transition to healthier eating patterns and regular exercise routines. Like all weight loss interventions, without sustainable lifestyle change, these medications have shown weight regain once the intervention has ceased. So if you want to lose weight, by all means, discuss these medications with your doctor. If you are wanting to maintain the weight you have lost over the longer term, be sure to incorporate a healthy eating and exercise plan into the strategy.?