We are always looking for the magic pill for weight loss. And now there are weight loss injections are offering that “magic” so many are looking for.
There are a few weight loss injections that we hear about a lot in the news these days. First, Ozempic, which is approved for Type 2 diabetics to improve blood sugar (not weight loss which is a side effect). Because of its success in helping with weight while managing Type 2 diabetes, the company that makes Ozempic, Novo Nordisk, made Wegovy. Wegovy is an FDA-approved weight loss injection. Third, is Mounjaro (Eli Lilly). Mounjaro is an injection that is approved to be used by Type 2 Diabetics to improve blood sugar and has also shown success in weight loss. Mounjaro is currently in Phase 3 (out of 4 phases) Clinical trials to be additionally approved for weight loss.
How do these drugs work? These drugs help the body reduce appetite and slow the digestion of food. They are taken as a weekly injection in the thigh, stomach, or upper arm. The dosages go up according to a prescribed dosing schedule (**which makes regular doctor’s care so important).
Why would you take them? Individuals with high BMIs, high blood pressure, and cholesterol can benefit from them. Improvements in weight, blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar have been reported. These drugs can offer a source of hope for those who have tried other means to lose weight to improve their overall health. These drugs are not meant to be a quick fix, they are a tool meant to be used in combination with healthy lifestyle changes.
A current patient says: “I’ve been white-knuckling weight loss for the last 15 years and getting the same short-term results. With this new medication, I can spend my energy on all aspects of wellness: healthy eating, good sleep, strength training, and stress reduction. I’m satisfied more easily, and my sweet tooth is practically gone. It is an absolute game changer for me.”
There are side effects of using weight loss injections. Some short-term side effects reported include nausea, constipation, bloating, burping, and heartburn. Long-term side effects can include thyroid cancer, pancreatitis, gallstones, and diabetic retinotopy.
What happens when you stop? Weight gain and increased appetite can return. It is important to improve lifestyle habits to maintain weight loss and see long-lasting health improvements.
Advice from a current patient: “Remembering that you need to eat to keep up energy is hard because you are not hungry at times. And try to eat a balanced healthy diet.”
If you are considering trying injections:
#1- Talk to your doctor- don’t just look for it on the internet. Having trusted medical advice is important. Do your research!
#2– Know that the drugs are not a quick fix. To make long-lasting changes you will need to work on: improved food choices, regular exercise, sleep, and improved stress/emotional health.
#3- Consider working with a health coach for accountability and healthy habit support.
For many, weight management is a chronic issue. These drugs can get the scale moving and offer hope, but still, the most long-lasting success is built around healthy lifestyle changes. So, when it comes to weight loss there is no one magic pill.
Resources:
https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a618008.html
https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04657003
https://www.healthline.com/health/drugs/wegovy-side-effects#introduction