Dr. Ambrish Mithal emphasizes that GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic (Ozemtria) and Zepbould (Mounjaro) can aid weight management but must be used cautiously. Lifestyle measures remain crucial in obesity management, similar to how diabetes is managed. Obesity is classified as a chronic “neuroendocrine” disease affecting the body’s satiety hormones, leading to overeating and weight gain. GLP-1 drugs work by resetting this system, but their effects are temporary unless continued use is maintained.
Setting realistic goals is vital; unrealistic targets often lead to failure. Dr. Mithal advises against ignoring lifestyle changes when initiating treatment with medication. He also highlights potential side effects, such as gastrointestinal issues and muscle loss, particularly concerning individuals with low muscle mass. Additionally, he mentions rare complications like NIAON with semaglutide and stresses the need for ongoing vigilance in patients.
Overall, while GLP-1 drugs offer promise, they should not replace lifestyle adjustments, and more research is needed before recommending lifelong treatment without further data.
Source: https://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/columns/obesity-ozempic-zepbould-weight-management-9798656