What is weight reduction therapy?
Weight reduction therapy refers to a structured, medical approach to achieving and maintaining weight loss. It usually combines lifestyle changes with medical or procedural options, depending on the individual.
Treatment options for weight reduction therapy
1. Lifestyle Therapy
2. Pharmacotherapy (Anti-Obesity Medications)
3. Endoscopic & Surgical Therapy
A good candidate for pharmacotherapy
BMI โฅ30 kg/mยฒ, or BMI โฅ27 kg/mยฒ with comorbidities (diabetes, hypertension, PCOS, etc.)
Steps for weight reduction therapy
โข Consultation with the doctor about your expectation
โข Laboratory investigation for comorbidities
โข Anti-Obesity Medications are prescribed and monitored by a healthcare professional alongside lifestyle therapy
Whatโs GLP-1 receptor agonist?
โข GLP-1 receptor agonists are appetite-reducing medications that help with weight loss by mimicking a natural gut hormone.
Examples for GLP-1 receptor agonists:ย
โข Liraglutide
โข Semaglutide
โข Tirzepatide (dual GLP-1/GIP agonist)
Weight reduction expectations
โข Initial target: 5โ10% weight loss in 3โ6 months
โข Average weight loss: 10โ20% (~1-2kg/wk)
โข Focus on health improvement, not just the scale
โข Long-term maintenance is as important as weight loss
Limitations & Precautions
โข Side effects may occur such as nausea, vomiting
โข Long-term use often required
โข Not suitable for pregnancy, lactation, or certain medical conditions
โข Weight regain possible if treatment is stopped
Conclusion
Medical therapy is an effective adjunct to lifestyle modification for weight reduction in
selected patients and should be individualized, supervised, and continued alongside
healthy lifestyle practices.
