Is it okay to use a weight loss drug?

Have you seen the recent bombardment commercials on TV announcing new drugs for weight loss?  Many of these drugs had a history first as a diabetes drug. Now they are capitalizing on the weight loss side effect of that drug. Except for very extreme situations, I would seriously consider making an honest attempt at lifestyle changes first. I’m sure the people taking these drugs have said or tried over and over to lose weight and are exasperated.  Our bodies are designed to heal itself.  Most medical doctors don’t have the education to talk about lifestyle, nor do they prescribe seeing a coach.  Instead, it’s suggested to take a pharmaceutical…and all pharmaceuticals come at a cost – financially, mentally, and physically.

Transforming your lifestyle sounds easy but it’s not. You will most likely need help. Transforming your health has so many benefits other than weight loss.  Some of the key points here came from a recent article in the AARP magazine.  Here are some questions you should ask yourself before you start with a weight-loss drug.

In studies, participants regained two-thirds of the weight they had lost on the medication after just one year of no longer taking that medication.  Taking a drug for quick weight loss without addressing the underlying problem, isn’t a fix.  It’s a short-term patch and since you haven’t modified your lifestyle at all, you are most likely apt to gain the lost weight back and more is high.

Is it worth the potential risk?  There are so many side effects of taking these drugs.  Mild side effects include nausea, diarrhea, migraines, constipation, etc.  Severe side effects include organ failure (kidney, liver, pancreas) to a variety of tumors and cancers.  And since some of these drugs are new on the market for weight loss, we are only just beginning to understand the real impact.  You’ll lose weight but there is a high probability it will have an impact on the “inside” of your body.

Is my mental state solid?  Make sure to tell your doctor if you have a history of depression or suicidal thoughts.  Data shows a worsening in these mental states.

Do I have access to ongoing care?  Many folks get these meds online and then have no support with dosages.  This can be very dangerous!

Am I prepared for the financial investment?  At up to $1,500 a month, some medications are pricey, and currently, Medicare and most insurances will not cover weight loss drugs.

I do understand that as humans we are wired for quick fixes despite the fact that we didn’t get to where we are quickly.  As a Health & Wellness coach, for much less than $1,500 a month, I help people with lifestyle changes leading to transformation. When we change our core beliefs, our daily habits, and our mental state of mind, we get so much more from life and ourselves than weight loss.  If you are struggling with losing weight, I would love to chat with you.  I offer free consultations!