Weight loss drugs can be a valuable adjunct to lifestyle interventions for certain patients struggling with obesity. Select one of the different classes of weight loss drugs, its mechanism of action, and the key factors healthcare professionals must consider when selecting this treatment regimen for a specific patient.
How do potential side effects, contraindications, and patient preferences factor into this decision-making process?
For the past two decades, the rate of overweight and obesity continued to grow in both adult and children. Currently, there are 16% globally of adult living with overweight and obesity, while children is at 8% (World Health Organization, n.d.). Obesity is linked to many health illnesses such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, or stroke. Despite encouraging our patient to make healthier choices by exercising or eating healthy food, weight loss drugs can definitely be a valuable adjunct to support patients who are struggling with weight loss and obesity.
Recently, GLP-1 Receptor Agonists such as Semaglutide have been extremely popular in the aspect of weight loss. This class of drugs was initially used to control glucose level for diabetic patients but incidentally found that it also aids in weight loss. According to Rosenthal (2020, pg. 414), GLP-1 receptor agonists, also called as incretin mimetics, works by augmenting the effects of incretin hormone that results in slow gastric emptying, stimulating glucose-dependent release of insulin, inhibiting postprandial release of glucagon, and suppresses appetite. This medication can cause GI symptoms such as severe heartburn, bloating, nausea, or vomiting. Additionally, this is contraindicated to patients who has history of thyroid tumor or multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2 as this medication may cause it. When deciding the best treatment course for the patient, we have to consider different factors and ultimately create a patient-focused weight loss plan.
