Obesity is a global health crisis, affecting millions of people worldwide. It's not just about excess weight. It's a complex medical condition linked to numerous health risks including type 2 diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, chronic pain, and certain types of cancer. Traditional methods like diet and exercise are essential, but for many, they are not enough to achieve and maintain significant weight loss. This is where GLP-1 medications such as Mounjaro, Ozempic, Semaglutide, and ZepBound come into play, offering new hope and better outcomes.
I've never seen medications with this much potential to change people's lives for the long term and for the better. I worked in weight loss surgery for seven years and these drugs are a breakthrough.
Tim Pickett, PA-C, founder of KindlyMD
The FDA recently approved GLP-1 (Glucagon-Like Peptide-1) receptor agonists, a class of injectable medications originally approved to manage blood sugar levels in type 2 diabetes patients, to help people lose weight. Medications like Mounjaro (tirzepatide), Ozempic (semaglutide), and the newer ZepBound are some of the fastest-growing medications in the U.S.
GLP-1 medications mimic the action of the natural hormone GLP-1, released in response to eating. These drugs enhance insulin secretion, suppress glucagon production, and slow gastric emptying. They basically slow down the GI system so you can't eat as much. This results in a decrease in appetite and an increase in feeling full, which leads to significant weight loss.
GLP-1 medications:
Extensive clinical trials have been done on GLP-1 medications in weight management. For instance, studies on 2,500 obese adults who took 5mg or more of Mounjaro showed that participants lost up to 15-20% of their body weight. Similar results have been observed with Ozempic and other GLP-1 medications, making them a powerful tool against obesity.
Recently, FDA approved GLP-1 medications like Mounjaro to treat obesity in patients with a BMI over 27 with at least one weight-related health condition such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol. This marks a significant shift toward recognizing these medications as a primary treatment for weight management. This does not mean your insurance will pay for the drug, however. It does mean that insurance will cover the medical management of the medications (visits, labs, etc.) while you pay for the medication out of pocket.
Only incorporate GLP-1 medications into a weight loss program under medical supervision. It involves a comprehensive approach that includes dietary changes, physical activity, and regular monitoring of health parameters. At KindlyMD, our healthcare providers offer guidance on the optimal use of these medications, tailor them to your individual health needs and goals, and integrate them into a holistic approach to healthcare. We practice the MEANS model of weight management: Medical, Emotional, Activity, Nutrition, Sleep.
Each GLP-1 medication has its own unique profile
Like all medications, GLP-1 receptor agonists come with potential side effects. Common ones include gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, bloating, diarrhea, and constipation. Rare but serious side effects can also occur, so patients should work closely with their healthcare providers during treatment.
Our case studies show that real-world use of GLP-1 medications combined with integrated diet and physical activity guidance, can lead to life-changing weight loss and health improvements. Patients can report not only reduced body weight but also improved overall health markers, including lower blood pressure, improved cholesterol, and reduced prescription medications for related conditions. Even more exciting is the mental health gains patients see with the positive change. Our integrated approach helps paitents make the change long-term and lasting.
The approval of GLP-1 medications for weight loss is a watershed moment in the management of obesity. With their ability to significantly reduce weight and improve metabolic health, these drugs represent a paradigm shift in the treatment of a condition that has long been challenging to manage effectively. As research continues and more long-term data becomes available, GLP-1 medications are set to become a cornerstone of obesity management, providing hope to those who have struggled with weight loss for years.
If you are someone you know strugges with weight they just cannot seem to lose, give us a call at 801-851-5554 or email hello@kindlymd.com and our team can schedule a no-risk, no-cost consultation with a weight loss provider.
