Patient's Query
Hi doctor,
I am 38 and have struggled with obesity most of my adult life. My BMI is 36, and I have tried diets, gym programs, and even personal coaching. I am now looking into Semaglutide or Tirzepatide. How do they work, and what are the risks? Will I regain weight if I stop them? Do they need to be taken lifelong?
Are there any risks to fertility or if I become pregnant while taking them? How do I qualify for these medicines? Do I need specific laboratory results or insurance approvals? Also, how do they compare to metabolic surgery in terms of weight loss and diabetes prevention? I am scared of complications but want something that really works.
Please advise.
Hi,
Welcome to icliniq.com
I read your query and understand your concern.
Semaglutide and Tirzepatide are medications that can aid in weight loss. Here is what you need to know:
How they work: Semaglutide (Wegovy) and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro) are glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists, which help regulate appetite and glucose metabolism.
Risks and side effects:
Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Potential risks include pancreatitis, thyroid tumors, and allergic reactions.
Stopping medication may lead to weight gain if lifestyle changes are not maintained.
Medication may need to be continued long-term to maintain weight loss.
Fertility and pregnancy: Consult your healthcare provider about potential risks and benefits. And it depends on tests and health status.
Comparison to metabolic surgery:
Both medication and surgery can be effective for weight loss and diabetes prevention.
Surgery may offer more significant weight loss but carries surgical risks.
Please get these investigations done and get back to me with the results so that I can guide you further.
TSH: Thyroid-stimulating hormone.
FT3: Free triiodothyronine.
FT4: Free thyroxine.
HbA1c: Hemoglobin A1c.
Lipid profile: A blood test that measures cholesterol and triglycerides.
CBC: Complete blood count.
HOMA-IR: Homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance.
Hope this answers your query.
Thank you.
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Answered byDr. Moustafa Hamza Sharawy
Medically reviewed byiCliniq medical review team
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