Are Weight-Loss Medications Effective and Safe?

Brian Gluck, DO, is a board-certified general surgeon with more than 20 years of experience specializing in bariatric surgery. He serves as the medical director of the Trinity Health Muskegon bariatric surgery program. Dr. Gluck recently participated in a Q&A and offered his expert guidance for patients and community members interested in weight-loss medications. (Drugs change frequently; text was written in August 2024.)

Q: How can I tell if I need to lose weight?

Dr. Gluck: An objective measure to consider is your body mass index (BMI), a ratio between height and weight. If your BMI is greater than 30, then you’re considered medically obese, and should consider a weight-loss program. Even with a BMI of 25-29, you should consider losing weight. It’s important to speak with your doctor about a goal for your ideal weight before beginning a weight-loss program. You can check your BMI online.

Q: How do diet medications help us lose weight?

Dr. Gluck: The newest group of prescription weight-loss medications are known as GLP-1 agonists. GLP-1 is an incretin hormone that is secreted in the intestines. The medication helps to slow the movement of food from the stomach to the small intestine which can make you feel full faster and longer, so you eat less. GLP-1 also signals the brain to "tell us we're full".

Q: Why have some diabetes medications turned into weight-loss medications?

Dr. Gluck: GLP-1 agonists have been used for about 10 years for the treatment of diabetes. As medical researchers saw the weight-loss benefits that diabetics were experiencing when taking these types of medications, several of the diabetic drug companies ran additional studies proving the safety and effectiveness of their medications for weight loss.*

Q: Do weight-loss medications actually work well?

Dr. Gluck: Several weight-loss medications have been proven to aid with weight loss when combined with a healthy diet and exercise regimen. For some, medication management for obesity can be a very effective treatment. However, bariatric surgery remains the most sustainable and successful treatment for obesity.

Q: What are the pros and cons of weight-loss medications?

Dr. Gluck: Weight-loss medications and injections can be a great tool to help achieve weight loss and lessen risks and diseases associated with carrying extra weight. Risks can include diabetes, hypertension (high blood pressure), high cholesterol, sleep apnea, heart attack, stroke and even risks of early death. Weight-loss medications also have risks and side effects, it is important to discuss their safety with your medical provider. Most people will regain weight after they stop taking the medication, so they must be taken long-term.

Q: How does your medical program enhance weight-loss results?

Dr. Gluck: For more than 20 years, we have helped thousands of people achieve healthier weights and improvement or resolution of diseases that are associated with obesity. Our care team includes highly trained physician assistants, registered dietician, nutrition coach, certified bariatric nurses and exercise physiologists. Our compassionate team understands the medical challenges and barriers that come with the disease of obesity and the stigma that patients with obesity often experience.

Q: How can someone connect with you to schedule an appointment?

Dr. Gluck: Taking the first step is easy! You can call 844-423-7564 to set up an appointment, or register for our free seminar to learn more.

*Ozempic (semaglutide) is prescribed for weight loss under the trade name Wegovy.

Victoza (liraglutide) is prescribed for weight loss under the trade name Saxenda.

Mounjaro (terzepatide) is prescribed for weight loss under the trade name Zepbound.