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 ≥30 kg/m², or BMI ≥27 kg/m² with comorbidities (diabetes, hypertension, PCOS, etc.)
Steps for weight reduction therapy
• Consultation with the doctor about your expectation
• Laboratory investigation for comorbidities
• Anti-Obesity Medications are prescribed and monitored by a healthcare professional alongside lifestyle therapy
What’s GLP-1 receptor agonist?
• 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:
• Liraglutide
• Semaglutide
• Tirzepatide (dual GLP-1/GIP agonist)
Weight reduction expectations
• Initial target: 5–10% weight loss in 3–6 months
• Average weight loss: 10–20% (~1-2kg/wk)
• Focus on health improvement, not just the scale
• Long-term maintenance is as important as weight loss
Limitations & Precautions
• Side effects may occur such as nausea, vomiting
• Long-term use often required
• Not suitable for pregnancy, lactation, or certain medical conditions
• 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.
