Let us examine the significance of addressing this topic. According to the CDC, 1 in 3 adults and more than 1 in 5 children struggle with obesity. The surge in obesity rates raises concerns, with excessive food consumption and inadequate exercise emerging as prime suspects for the escalating chronic weight issues in the population.

A closer look at overeating reveals several contributing factors, including portion sizes, boredom-driven eating, and excessive frequency. Coupled with insufficient exercise, this lifestyle imbalance results in unburned calorie surplus, potentially leading to serious health issues including Diabetes Type 2, high blood pressure, high cholesterol leading to heart disease, and even certain types of cancer as well.

The link between obesity and Type 2 Diabetes is profound. Diabetes is a chronic condition allowing excess glucose to circulate in the blood due to insufficient insulin produced by the pancreas and decreased insulin sensitivity due to chronically high glucose levels. This is driven by excess weight and body fat. If diabetes is left uncontrolled it can lead to heart disease, nerve damage, eye problems, and kidney disease.

These alarming statistics underscore a pressing health issue that demands attention and prompts questions about effective solutions. In the effort to treat Diabetes Type 2, a class of medication called GLP-1 agonists arose which showed significant improvement in not only lowering blood glucose but also the added benefit of significant weight loss as well. Glucagon-like-peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists target the brain's appetite centers, reducing hunger and increasing satiety, thereby supporting calorie reduction and a healthier diet. It also slows the stomach emptying, leading to a gradual nutrient absorption, including glucose, and enhances insulin secretion to regulate blood sugar.

Byetta was the first GLP-1 medication to gain FDA approval in 2009 however the most popular of these medications including Victoza (Liraglutide) and Ozempic (Semaglutide) were approved by the FDA in 2010 and 2017 respectively. Its weight-loss potential surfaced during clinical trials, leading to the FDA approval of Saxenda (Liraglutide) and Wegovy (Semaglutide) available at higher dosages as dedicated weight loss drugs to address the obesity crisis. Most recently, a new and promising weight loss drug was approved in 2023 called Zepbound (Tirzepatide) which has comparable properties to GLP-1 agonists and is also an injectable medication as well. Coupled with diet intervention and exercise, these three medications showed a significant reduction in weight compared to placebo with some patients losing at least 10% of body weight or more.

Now that we have explored the history and purpose, the upcoming blog series will dissect the pros and cons of these "weight loss" drugs—helping you discern whether it aligns with your goals or warrants caution. The most effective prescription for sustainable health involves hard work, commitment, and inner strength. Seeking help begins with open discussions with healthcare providers to plan safe and sustainable strategies for improved well-being. Providers play a crucial role in guiding individuals through lifestyle changes and, if necessary, exploring supplementary options such as these injectable weight loss medications or other oral weight loss medications.



At Montgomery Medical, we believe in empowering our patients to embrace positive changes and stand ready to provide comprehensive support in your health journey. For further information call 724-569-8100 to make an appointment to discuss these options with a health care provider.