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Even more compelling is the recent clinical trial evidence that has shown a reduction and impact in heart attacks, strokes, heart failure and death in high-risk individuals who have already had a heart attack or a stroke or some sort of cardiovascular event and are living with obesity or overweight.
It is important to remember that when using these medications for weight loss they are only approved for people who meet certain criteria which include adults diagnosed with obesity - a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher - or those with a BMI of 27 plus at least one weight-related condition, like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or type 2 diabetes.
Some people may see these new drugs as a quick-fix solution but all weight-loss medications must be used as an aid to weight loss and supported by an overall, clinically well-supervised program that supports healthy eating, regular physical activity and long-term behaviour change. People who stop taking the medications will often regain weight unless they have established a consistent lifestyle change that will help sustain their weight loss, in the long term.
When contemplating taking these medications one must always consider the risks and benefits and it's important to understand the potential downsides. Some people may develop various gastrointestinal side effects, including gas, bloating, indigestion, nausea, or irregular bowel movements. But these tend to usually resolve within a few weeks. These medications should always be started at their lowest doses and then gradually increased to try and avoid developing side effects. It is not just prudent but imperative that people ask for help and speak to clinicians to avoid or manage these often transient side-effects and enjoy their journeys to achieving a healthier weight.
One cannot underestimate the consequences and impact on the individual, society and health care system from the increasing burden of overweight and obesity. Medical therapies are therefore an essential addition to our armamentarium of strategies for fighting obesity. For a physician who is involved in helping people living with obesity get healthier, it is an exciting time as newer therapies in the pipeline show even more promise and gives us more options to help people achieve their weight loss goals and become healthier and happier and that’s is what it’s all about.