As an expert in the field of weight loss, I am often asked when is the right time to start considering weight loss medication. The answer is not a simple one, as it depends on various factors such as your body mass index (BMI) and any obesity-related health conditions you may have. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), prescription weight-loss medications can be used for individuals with a BMI equal to or greater than 30, or a BMI equal to or greater than 27 with one or more obesity-related conditions. These medications, when used in combination with lifestyle changes, have been shown to lead to significant weight loss compared to those who do not use medication. However, not everyone is a candidate for weight-loss medications. In order to be eligible, individuals must have a BMI of 30 or more, or a BMI of 27 or more with an obesity-related condition.
Additionally, due to the cost of these medications, some insurance companies may have their own eligibility criteria or require phased therapy with oral medications. When working with my patients, I take a comprehensive approach to treating obesity. This includes lifestyle modifications such as teaching them about proper nutrition, exercise, and behavior modification. We also discuss other factors that may contribute to their weight problems, such as sleep habits and mental health. It's important to understand that our bodies are not designed for extreme weight loss. In fact, our metabolism is programmed to slow down and increase hunger when we start losing weight.
This is known as metabolic adaptation and can make it difficult to maintain weight loss over time. To combat this, I always advise my patients to focus on maintaining muscle mass and metabolism by consuming enough protein, exercising regularly, and incorporating strength training into their routine. For those who have successfully lost weight and have not experienced any serious side effects, doctors may recommend long-term use of weight-loss medications to help maintain their weight loss and improve overall health. While exercise is important for overall health, it is not always effective for weight loss. This is where lifestyle modifications and weight-loss medications come into play. As part of the Ohio State Weight Management Team, we provide comprehensive care backed by one of the country's leading academic health centers. With the withdrawal of previous weight-loss drugs and a better understanding of obesity, a second generation of medications has been developed.
These include popular options such as phentermine, which can be taken alone or in combination with topiramate. Another medication that has gained popularity for its off-label use in weight loss is Mounjaro (tirzepatide).Studies have shown that after one year of taking anti-obesity medications, individuals can experience a 3% to 12% greater weight loss compared to those who only make lifestyle changes. This may not seem like a significant amount, but it can have a major impact on overall health and reduce the risk of serious conditions such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes. It's important to note that weight-loss medications are not a quick fix and should always be used under the guidance of a healthcare provider. They can be a helpful tool in making lifestyle changes and achieving your weight loss goals. If you are considering weight-loss medication, I encourage you to speak with your healthcare provider about the potential risks and benefits.
At St. Joseph's Health, we offer consultations to help individuals take the next step towards achieving their weight loss goals. And remember, even if you do decide to stop taking medication, maintaining healthy lifestyle habits can help prevent any weight gain.
