In April 2024, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced the limited availability of the weight loss drug Zepbound. Zepbound is the newest weight loss drug on the market, approved only last November 2023 as a treatment for weight management. In particular, Zepbound is prescribed for individuals with obesity or overweight conditions accompanied by related underlying health issues, such as high blood pressure.
The limited availability of Zepbound and the general shortage of other weight loss medications in the market is attributed to a surge in demand, reflecting the growing need for effective weight loss interventions. In this article, we’ll take a further look at the implications and the role of medication in weight loss.
How do weight loss medications work?
Lifestyle changes remain fundamental to weight management. This can entail a proper diet, from eating manageable portions to preparing healthy snacks like Greek yogurt or hard-boiled eggs or regular exercise. However, the efficacy of these lifestyle and diet changes may vary among individuals, particularly for those grappling with underlying biological factors hindering weight loss. In such cases, the significance of weight loss medication lies in its complementary role alongside lifestyle modifications in managing obesity.
These medications operate through diverse mechanisms aimed at facilitating weight reduction. By targeting gut and brain hormones, they can effectively curb appetite, aiding individuals in controlling their food intake. Additionally, some medications exert their effects by boosting metabolism or enhancing insulin sensitivity, thereby enhancing the body’s calorie-burning capacity. Otherwise, certain medications can also influence fat absorption in the intestines, leading to a reduction in calorie intake.
What are the different types and brands of weight loss medications?
The landscape of weight loss medications has undergone significant evolution since the early twentieth century. They now encompass various types, each with distinct mechanisms of action and brand names.
One notable category is dual agonists, exemplified by Mounjaro or tirzepatide. Zepbound is a notable example that’s also sold under the brand name Mounjaro. Administered via a weekly injection, tirzepatide exerts its effects by targeting both GLP-1 and GIP receptors. Clinical trials have demonstrated significant weight loss benefits, with some participants experiencing reductions exceeding 10% of their baseline body weight.
Another prominent class is GLP-1 receptor agonists. Examples include Saxenda (liraglutide) and Wegovy (semaglutide), which were approved in 2014 and 2021, respectively. Using GLP-1 for weight loss works by inducing feelings of fullness, curbing cravings, and modulating calorie consumption and storage within the body. Dr. Robert Kushner, M.D. explains that these may also raise your resting metabolism. That’s because GLP-1 is a natural gut hormone that increases insulin production to restore blood sugar levels to a normal range. However, it only extends for approximately two to three minutes upon release. Its drug form, or GLP-1 agonists, and its effects can last up to 14 hours in your body. These factors typically amount to an average reduction of 15% in body weight.
The choice between these medications often hinges on various factors, such as an individual’s medical history, insurance coverage, and personal preference. Furthermore, nuances in administration, dosage, and potential side effects may influence the decision-making process.
What is the future of weight loss?
It’s evident that the role of weight loss medication will continue to be pivotal in combating obesity. In the same month that Zepbound decreased in stock, researchers announced the potential of a new weight loss medication. Here, this new study linked the diabetes medication metformin to elevated levels of Lac-Phe (N-lactoyl-phenylalanine), an “anti-hunger molecule.”
The accessibility of weight loss medications has grown as well. It’s no longer just celebrities or influencers taking Ozempic or Wegovy. Today, accessing these GLP-1 agonists is as easy as walking into Costco or joining an online weight loss program like WeightWatchers and signing up for their health services. These platforms help provide affordable healthcare and professional services in the weight loss industry.
However, it’s critical to understand that while the role of weight loss medications continues to grow, its fundamental purpose remains unchanged. Lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise remain the cornerstone of weight loss efforts, and medications offer valuable support. By combining the two, healthcare providers can offer holistic solutions that optimize weight loss outcomes and improve long-term health.
Looking ahead, advancements in weight loss medications hold promise for transforming the landscape of weight management. For more on health and fitness, check out our other articles on Tops Health Info.