Many doctors are now prescribing GLP-1 medications for weight loss, but this doesn’t mean they are the best choice for you. You should consider finding GLP-1 specialists – doctors that specialize in obesity medicine who can keep an eye on your overall heart health and make sure the medications are working safely and effectively.
Obesity drugs like Wegovy and Zepbound have gained popularity—and have become profitable so it comes as no surprise that so many doctors, including psychiatrists, plastic surgeons, and dermatologists are adding them to their practices.
But real GLP-1 specialists emphasize that injections alone are not sufficient for treating the condition.
According to Dr. John Batsis, a researcher and associate professor at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine, “Obesity is a chronic disease” and “when we consider chronic diseases, a fundamental principle is lifestyle [modification], which includes aerobic and strength training exercise, diet, and behavioral health.”
He is concerned that some patients are looking for a quick fix from any doctor who is willing to prescribe the medication. He stresses that weight management drugs should be part of a comprehensive strategy which is why there is a need to find a doctor certified in obesity medicine.
What is an Obesity Medicine Specialist?
Obesity medicine specialists have extensive training in managing weight. They usually start as physicians in internal medicine, pediatrics, family medicine, or preventive medicine before specializing in obesity.
If you’re looking for weight management medication and can’t find a certified obesity specialist, look for a provider trained in internal medicine, such as an endocrinologist. They should have a thorough understanding of the body systems affected by medication and can determine if you’re a suitable candidate.
Why is there a need for a holistic approach to weight loss?
A holistic approach to weight management is crucial because some medical conditions make GLP-1 receptor agonist medications—the class that includes several diabetes and anti-obesity injectables—unsafe. For example, a history of thyroid cancer or pancreas insufficiency can make drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy risky.
You need to work closely with an obesity specialist who will let you start at a low dose, discuss side effects and improvements, and adjust your dosage as needed.
A provider specializing in internal medicine, if not obesity medicine, is best equipped to monitor long-term changes like muscle loss, depression, or blood pressure decreases and help you adjust your diet, exercise routines, and other medications.
GLP-1 Therapy is Long Term
GLP-1 agonists are not about losing a few pounds and you’re done. You must meet specific FDA guidelines to qualify for a prescription, such as having a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher. You may be eligible even with a lower BMI but should have either type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol or high blood pressure.
In 2017, the FDA approved Ozempic, which contains semaglutide, as a treatment for type 2 diabetes. In 2019, it approved Rybelsus, another semaglutide formulation, for reducing blood sugar levels in adults with type 2 diabetes. In 2021, the FDA approved Wegovy, a third semaglutide formulation, for chronic weight management for those with obesity or overweight and at least one weight-related condition. Wegovy is currently the only form of semaglutide that’s FDA-approved for weight loss.
How to qualify for a GLP-1 prescription?
Your healthcare professional will determine if GLP-1 is a good fit for you. Generally, Rybelsus and Ozempic are prescribed to people with type 2 diabetes. Wegovy is usually prescribed to people with a body mass index (BMI) of 27 kg/m² or higher. Keep in mind that GLP-1 for weight loss is often combined with other interventions, like exercise and nutritional counseling. Energy balance plays a pivotal role in cellular processes and our overall health.
If you don’t meet these criteria, you may still be prescribed GLP-1 drugs for off-label use, which refers to use outside of FDA approval. For example, taking Ozempic solely for weight loss would be considered off-label use. Taking Wegovy for the same purpose would not be off-label use.
Who can prescribe GLP-1 medications?
In the United States, you need a valid prescription from a licensed healthcare professional. Your primary care physician, endocrinologist, or a diabetes specialist can assess your health and determine if you’re a good candidate for the drug.
When in doubt, you may want to see a general practitioner or use a telemedicine service to secure a prescription online, but you’ll likely need to appear in person for lab work.