Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Zepbound are all Food and Drug Administration-approved drugs that many people are using for weight loss, but it is crucial to examine their safety concerns or side effects for individuals over the age of 50. Recent discussions have sought to uncover whether these drugs are equally effective in menopausal and postmenopausal women as they are for men and younger women. According to Dr. Alexandra Sowa, an internist and obesity medicine specialist, GLP-1 medications mimic a hormone called GLP-1 found naturally in the body. These drugs assist in weight loss by communicating with the brain, gut, and pancreas, which leads to reduced appetite and stabilized blood sugar levels.
Though GLP-1s have been used since 2005, new iterations like semaglutide and tirzepatide have gained public attention due to substantial weight loss results from clinical trials. Dr. Sowa emphasizes that these medications are not merely a quick fix; they must be integrated into a holistic lifestyle approach.
To qualify for medications like Ozempic and Mounjaro, the FDA stipulates that a patient must be overweight or obese, with a BMI of 30 or more, or a BMI of 27 or higher with accompanying health issues.
While the usage of these drugs has surged among those fitting the criteria, they should only be prescribed after healthy lifestyle changes have been attempted unsuccessfully.
For individuals like Heather Mullane, who experienced a plateau after losing weight through diet and exercise, these medications proved beneficial. After starting Wegovy, she saw measurable changes in her BMI and expressed satisfaction that her body finally reflected her hard work.
Results are overwhelmingly positive; a study in the American Journal of Cardiology revealed over 85% of participants lost more than 5% of their body weight, with around one-third losing over 20%. Interestingly, women, particularly those going through menopause, have shown more significant weight loss results compared to men.
However, these medications come with risks. The common symptoms reported include nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting, and while most participants in studies tolerated them, some discontinued usage due to the severity of symptoms.
Adverse concerns include potential long-term reliance on these drugs and the risk of muscle loss. Healthcare professionals stress the importance of maintaining a balanced diet rich in protein and engaging in strength training, especially for those over 50.
Due to soaring demand, obtaining GLP-1 agonists can be challenging, with some patients finding that their insurance does not cover the expensive treatments, which can costs between $900 to $1,600 monthly.
As compounded versions of these drugs emerge due to shortages, caution is warranted. The safety and efficacy of these compounded prescriptions are not guaranteed, thus a prescription from a qualified professional is mandatory. It is vital for individuals considering GLP-1 medications to seek expert guidance to navigate this complex landscape.
Source: Next Avenue
