Education Around GLP-1's: Why Doctors Should Be Involved When Using Weight Loss Drugs
Written by Kaitlyn Gomez
Social media has long bombarded the world with fad diets and unregulated supplements. However, one of the latest viral trends, the use of GLP-1 agonists, rises above the hype and demonstrates proven weight reduction. Despite the new medication’s popularity and FDA approval, safe, medically supervised weight management remains critical.
“We can’t think of weight loss medications, particularly GLP-1 receptor agonists like Ozempic and Wegovy, as magic cures,” says Sergio Padron, founder and CEO of MD Exam. “When you use them, you should be under the supervision of a healthcare professional. In addition, their use should be part of a comprehensive weight loss plan.”
GLP-1s and weight management
GLP-1 agonists are among the latest and most promising medical advances in weight management. Originally proposed for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, this medication enhances insulin secretion by mimicking the effects of incretins, natural hormones that help regulate the body’s blood sugar levels.When GLP-1 agonists hit the market, their additional potential as a weight loss intervention surfaced. The exact mechanism of how the medication contributes to weight loss is still under research, although it is clear that the drugs curb hunger and cause food to move more slowly from the stomach into the small intestine.
Most people have heard of Ozempic and Wegovy by now. Each of these medications is a brand name for a GLP-1 agonist because they both contain the same active ingredient: semaglutide.
In addition to these branded medications, compounded semaglutide is also an option. Compounding means that a pharmacist prepares a medication specifically tailored to the needs of an individual patient. This process can offer flexibility in dosages and formulations, but as expected, it necessitates an even greater level of medical oversight to ensure its safety and effectiveness.
The benefits of medical supervision when using weight loss drugs
The potential benefits of GLP-1 agonists are clear, but self-prescribing this medication or using it without supervision can lead to risks. Medical professionals should play a part in any program involving these weight-loss drugs for several reasons.First, experienced doctors have the expertise to create personalized treatment plans for each patient. Every individual’s weight loss journey is unique, and everyone brings a variety of existing health conditions and genetic predispositions to the table. These differences, along with varying lifestyle choices, all combine to determine the most effective treatment plan. As doctors provide personalized medical advice and adjust the dosage of GLP-1 agonists to suit each patient's specific needs, they ensure safety and maximize the drugs' efficacy.
In addition to personalization, continuous supervision allows professionals to monitor progress and make timely adjustments to a patient’s treatment. Given their effect on metabolic processes, this is crucial when using potent medications like GLP-1 agonists. Like any medication, GLP-1 agonists can cause side effects, and medical supervision enables doctors to address any adverse reactions quickly.
Finally, physicians guide their patients in incorporating weight loss drugs into a broader strategy. Their comprehensive approach combines medication with lifestyle modifications such as diet and exercise.
“The medications we use in MD Exam’s weight loss programs have one main goal,” explains Padron. “They allow our patients to feel full faster and eat less food. When patients combine this benefit with better exercise and dieting habits, they can lose weight at a healthy pace.”
MD Exam's medically supervised programs
MD Exam offers a scientifically backed approach that combines GLP-1 agonists and other weight loss drugs with personalized medical support. Expert physicians assess patients’ needs and help them choose from a range of effective weight loss programs. MD Exam’s Game Changer program centers around the Semaglutide drug Wegovy. Patients can access the medication as a weekly injection or an oral tablet.For individuals requiring more substantial assistance, the Ultimate program introduces Tirzepatide, which enhances appetite suppression by combining the effects of GLP-1s with GIPs.
Scientifically validated and safety-assured
The drugs used in MD Exam’s programs have undergone rigorous clinical trials and are FDA-approved. Unlike unverified weight loss trends, these medications are grounded in scientific research.GLP-1 agonists offer exciting hope as part of a comprehensive weight-management strategy. However, medical professionals must guide this new approach to treating obesity. Their involvement can ensure the safe and effective use of these powerful drugs, aligning treatment plans with each patient's unique health profile. With medical supervision, the potential of GLP-1 agonists can be harnessed fully, offering a sustainable path to weight loss and overall well-being.
“Our patients report losing 10 to 20 pounds in just weeks, not months,” concludes Padron. “Best of all, we equip our patients with the support and guidance they need to achieve long-term success. By combining expert coaching support from the MD Exam team with the latest advances in weight loss medication, we empower patients to experience incredible breakthroughs in their weight loss journey.”
