Introducing our new program: Mayo Clinic Diet for Weight-Loss Medications.
If your doctor has recommended you take a weight-loss medication like semaglutide (sold as Wegovy), it is understandable you may have concerns. It's completely normal to feel hesitant, as any medication carries potential risks and side effects.
Here we provide answers to some of the most common concerns and doubts.
While it's true that some weight regain is common after discontinuing weight-loss medications, it is not an inevitable outcome. The key is to view the medications as tools to facilitate lifestyle changes, not as a permanent solution. With the right approach, it is possible to maintain significant weight loss long-term, even after stopping the medication. The essential elements are:
The key to preventing weight regain is to view weight-loss medication as a tool to jumpstart and facilitate lifestyle changes, not as a permanent fix. With the right support and ongoing commitment to healthier habits, significant weight loss can be maintained even after stopping the medication.
No. Medications aren’t an easy way out or magic bullet. To lose weight — and keep it off — you will still need to eat a balanced diet and move more. Medications are a tool to help you, not a substitute for healthy habits. In fact, based on the scientific evidence behind weight-loss medications, the FDA approved GLP-1s for weight loss as part of a weight-management program: the drugs were never designed to be taken alone.
There are many ways that you can work to maximize your weight loss results on Wegovy, Ozempic, or other GLP-1s. Getting proper sleep, managing stress, and practicing a physically active lifestyle are just a few ways.
The cost of weight-loss medications can vary significantly, but in general they tend to be quite expensive and can be over $1,000 per month. The cost can vary depending on your insurance coverage, plan, and medical condition.
To get a more accurate idea of the cost for your situation, it's best to check with your healthcare provider and insurance provider directly. They can provide you with the most up-to-date information on the out-of-pocket expenses you can expect for the weight-loss medication prescribed.
The coverage of weight-loss medications by health insurance can vary widely. Here's a general overview of the insurance coverage landscape for these types of medications:
The coverage and specific requirements can also change over time, and they may differ based on the state and the individual insurance plan. To determine if a weight-loss medication is covered by your health insurance, it's best to:
Some pharmaceutical companies also offer patient assistance programs or co-pay assistance to help make weight-loss medications more affordable for individuals who may not have adequate insurance coverage.
Already taking GLP-1s? Discover our companion to weight-loss medications from the experts at Mayo Clinic.
Weight-loss medications approved for long-term use, like semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy) and liraglutide (Saxenda), are not considered addictive. The key reasons are as follows:
Some older weight-loss drugs, like phentermine, may have a higher potential for abuse. But the newer, long-term weight-loss medications are not viewed as addictive substances when used as directed under medical supervision.
The potential impact of weight-loss medications on fertility can vary, depending on the specific medication and the individual's health status. Here's a general overview:
Obesity itself can be a contributing factor to fertility issues, and weight loss through a combination of lifestyle changes and medication can potentially improve fertility outcomes in some cases.
If you are considering weight-loss medication and are planning a pregnancy, it's crucial to discuss the potential impacts with your healthcare provider. They can assess your individual situation and provide guidance on the appropriate course of action to optimize your fertility and overall health.
In general, it's recommended to discuss family planning goals with your provider before starting any weight-loss medication, as they can help you make an informed decision and address any fertility-related concerns.
Some may wonder why you feel more tired or fatigued when using a semaglutide. Fatigue and tiredness from semaglutide can occur because it decreases hunger and as a result the amount of calories consumed. Especially during the first few weeks of use, it is important to make sure that the meals you eat are providing proper nutrition and that you are getting a good night's sleep in order to avoid fatigue and tiredness while using semaglutide. Weight loss can also cause tiredness.
Weight-loss medications like semaglutide go through extensive clinical trials and safety evaluations by regulatory bodies like the FDA before being approved for use. This ensures they meet strict safety standards. The benefits of these medications in helping people achieve significant, sustainable weight loss are carefully weighed against the potential risks.
Saying that, there are certain individuals who should not take semaglutide, the active ingredient in Ozempic and other GLP-1 receptor agonist medications. Here are the key groups of people who should avoid taking semaglutide:
It’s important to work with your healthcare provide and inform them of any pre-existing conditions or concerns you may have before starting this medication.
If you are interested in exploring weight-loss medications, it is essential to work closely with an experienced healthcare provider to determine if it is the right treatment option for you. A comprehensive weight-loss program that includes diet, exercise, and lifestyle changes is also recommended in conjunction with weight-loss medications to achieve the best results.
The Mayo Clinic Diet has developed a new program for Weight-Loss Medications. This program offers a healthier way to achieve weight loss while using medication:
Need access to GLP-1s? The Mayo Clinic Diet platform now offers clinical care for members interested in adding weight-loss medication to their journey.
Success Stories (22) Food & Nutrition (16) Exercise (3) Habits & Motivation (10) Weight-Loss Medications (16)
Which plan is right for you?
Whether you're looking for a healthy weight-loss plan or considering weight-loss medication, discover which of our world-leading solutions is best for you.