Q & A: Weight loss injections-Trending in popularity

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DoctorH
M.D.

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Discover how weight loss injections like Ozempic help combat obesity and transform your health for better. They are trending in popularity because work to help you lose weight with seemingly few side effects.

How many people struggle with weight loss?

Many people struggle with obesity and weight loss, and here is “the skinny,” on weight loss injectables like Ozempic. Per the CDC (Center for Disease Control and Prevention), over 40 % of adults in the U.S. are overweight or obese with areas in the South and Midwest states reporting even higher numbers.

Who is using weight loss injections?

Americans are turning to injectables like Semaglutide (ex. Ozempic), and Tirzepatide (ex. Mounjaro) with sustained weight loss when done in partnership with a healthy diet and exercise. Obesity places you at risk for heart disease, diabetes, sleep apnea (difficulty breathing with sleep), high cholesterol, joint pain, and even death.

How popular are the weight loss injectables?

In fact, a poll says that most adults in the U.S. are familiar with-Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjara-for weight loss and nearly half of the people who are overweight or obese would be interested in trying one. Interest was higher among women, and those whose doctors recommended weight loss. Challenges to trying the injectables are availability, safety concerns, costs, and not wanting to self-inject.

Are weight loss injections for me?

Qualifications for weight loss injectables depends on your body mass index or weight and how it is impacting your health. It is important for maximal weight loss that the medication (Ozempic, Zepbound, Wegovy) is done in tandem with a good lifestyle that includes a healthy diet, exercise, management of stress, and a plenty of sleep.

Which weight loss injectable is best for me? What are the side effects?

You need to ask your provider which medication is best for you and discuss the risks and benefits. The most common side effects of the newer medications are nausea, vomiting, constipation, and less common may include gallbladder disease, pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas), and should be avoided if you have certain thyroid cancers. There is also a warning of possible suicidal thoughts or actions that is currently under review by the FDA. If you are experiencing any severe side effects seek medical help immediately.

In terms of payment for the medications, it depends on your insurance and coverage guidelines and may be limited to patients with obesity and diabetes.

If you have any questions, AskDoctorH. A full version of the blog with more information is also available.

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