Weight Loss Medications: Do They Work? Are They Safe? Who Are They For?

It’s no secret that America is facing an obesity crisis. But is there hope on the horizon? The new wave of weight-loss medications — Wegovy and Zepbound  — certainly seem to be game changers. Whereas previous options helped people lose only around 5% of their weight, these new medications can lead to up to 22% weight loss. But you’re not alone if you have questions. In this episode, we discuss everything we know (and don’t yet know) about the new class of weight-loss medications.Expert: Dr. Garth Davis, Weight Loss SurgeonInterviewer: Zach MooreNotable topics covered: How weight-loss medication compares to bariatric surgeryWeight-loss medications vs. supplementsThe many reasons why losing weight often isn’t as simple as diet and exercise How the new wave of weight-loss medications workAll about GLP-1 agonists, including why achieving “the GLP-1 effect” promotes weight lossWho should consider taking these medications? And are they covered by insurance? Just one tool to get weight off: why diet and exercise still matterWill you need to stay on this medication forever?How these medications also benefit heart health, type 2 diabetes management and moreThe potential side effects of weight-loss medicationsIf you enjoy these kinds of conversations, be sure to subscribe. And for more topics like this, visit our blog at houstonmethodist.org/blog.