Should I Try an Injectable Weight Loss Medication?

April 18, 2023

Injectable weight loss and diabetes medications, brand names like Ozempic and Saxenda, are in a class of diabetes blood sugar lowering drugs called GLP-1 agonists.  They have been popular, but expensive, options for people with type 2 diabetes for about 10 years.  So, if you do not have diabetes, should you try one of these medications to lose weight?  

The conversation should start with your doctor to see if you medically qualify for a weight loss medication.  If your doctor recommends it, the next conversation (or several) is typically with the pharmacy and insurance, because many plans will not cover the drugs.  Check websites like GoodRx or the drug company website for coupon cards that could lower your out of pocket costs.  Many health clinics and medspas are starting to offer this service for an out of pocket fee.  

From my experience working with clients who take these medications, here are some pros and cons of weight loss injectables they experience:

Pros:

• Feeling less hungry overall
• Eating smaller portions at meals
• Weight loss
• Not thinking about food all the time
• Less desire to snack when not hungry
• Blood sugars are lower all day without going too low

Cons:

• Just forgetting to eat at all
• Muscle loss along with the intended fat loss
• Stomach upset, nausea and sometimes gastroparesis 
• Cost of the medication caused them to quit
• Quitting the medication caused appetite to return to normal
• Feeling sick most of the day and having to stop taking the medication

Despite the pros, it is important to make lifestyle changes, such as exercise and eating less fast food, to see best results.  I always recommend food, exercise, stress and sleep management before trying a medication!  If you have struggled to lose weight despite consistent (daily) balanced eating for your body and exercise, talk to your doctor about weight loss medications to add to your routine.  If you do decide to take these weight loss medications, you will need to do some type of strength training exercise regularly to help slow muscle loss that comes along with this weight loss.  Muscle loss is the enemy of weight loss and maintenance for your future. If you are unsure what your body needs for balanced eating and help with planning healthy meals, work with a registered dietitian.

Schedule a free discovery call with a dietitian here. 

All information contained on this site is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The information is not intended to be a replacement or substitute for consultation with a qualified medical professional or for professional medical advice related to a medical condition. Please contact your physician with any questions and concerns about your medical condition

Also in Blog