Medical Biochemistry Specialist Prof. Dr. Nilgün Tekkeşin, evaluating the effects and risks of using diabetes medications for weight loss, stated that GLP-1 agonists approved for weight loss are injectable drugs administered by injection, adding, “If you are not a Type 2 diabetes patient, consult your doctor about alternatives to diabetes medications.”
Prof. Dr. Nilgün Tekkeşin: “Unfortunately, as with other weight loss medications, patients regain most of the weight they lost, especially if they stop the medication before one year. Furthermore, the medications are very expensive and need to be stored in the refrigerator.”
Prof. Dr. Nilgün Tekkeşin from Üsküdar Üniversitesi Faculty of Medicine (English), Department of Medical Biochemistry, evaluated the effects and risks of using diabetes medications for weight loss.
Lifestyle changes should be made first for weight loss!
Prof. Dr. Tekkeşin pointed out that the use of Type 2 diabetes medications, especially GLP-1 agonists (Weight loss drugs), has recently become increasingly common for weight loss. She noted that various diabetes medications not only help treat Type 2 diabetes but also aid patients in losing weight, stating, “The best approach to weight loss is always to first make behavioral and lifestyle changes.”
7 hours of sleep is the key to successful weight loss…
Prof. Dr. Tekkeşin explained that among the principles necessary for long-term success are regular exercise, healthy eating, and sufficient sleep, stating, “Try to do moderate-intensity exercise, such as walking for at least 30 minutes every day. Eat a high-protein breakfast. Limit sugary drinks. Benefit from whole foods. Eat mindfully; eat slowly and savor the taste. Also, reduce your calorie intake and avoid high-fat, sugary, and overly processed foods. Aim for 7 hours of sleep every night. This is the key to successful weight loss.”
These medications may be preferred for some individuals with severe appetite problems
Prof. Dr. Nilgün Tekkeşin stated that patients using weight loss medication alongside healthy lifestyle changes lose an average of 10 percent of their body weight, whereas for patients using only medication, this rate remains at 3-6 percent. She added, “In addition to lifestyle choices, GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) agonists, used to control blood sugar levels in people with diabetes, may be preferred for some individuals experiencing severe appetite problems. To qualify for GLP-1 agonists, patients generally need to meet one of 3 criteria: if their Body Mass Index (BMI) is 30 or higher, if their BMI is 27 and they have other significant medical conditions, or if their BMI is 25 and they are overweight with Type 2 diabetes…”
Can injectable weight loss medications administered by injection be used long-term?
Prof. Dr. Nilgün Tekkeşin stated that there are currently two GLP-1 products approved as medications for weight loss, and both are reliable for long-term use. She also reminded that another medication approved for diabetes does not have full approval for weight loss purposes.
Prof. Dr. Nilgün Tekkeşin noted that diabetes medications, especially GLP-1 receptor agonists, work through different mechanisms to promote weight loss, explaining, “GLP-1 agonists do not directly cause weight loss; they lead to weight loss by stimulating the pancreas to release insulin, thereby lowering blood sugar, reducing overall appetite, and slowing stomach emptying (making one feel full for longer). GLP-1 agonists approved for weight loss are injectable medications administered by injection.”
Also helps prevent cardiovascular complications such as high blood pressure and heart attack
Prof. Dr. Nilgün Tekkeşin stated that there are two different types of medications taken daily and weekly, adding, “GLP-1 agonists also help prevent cardiovascular complications such as high blood pressure, heart attack, and heart disease.”
Do diabetes medications cause side effects?
Prof. Dr. Nilgün Tekkeşin noted that these medications are approved by the FDA as a treatment for those seeking weight loss, stating, “GLP-1 agonists are adjusted from time to time to reach the maintenance dose and minimize side effects. The benefits generally outweigh the side effects. Still, some patients may experience certain side effects while using these medications, but these generally do not require discontinuation of the drug.”
Prof. Dr. Nilgün Tekkeşin also mentioned that common side effects of these medications include fatigue, constipation or diarrhea, abdominal pain and indigestion, and low blood sugar, continuing as follows:
“Certain GLP-1 medications may increase the risk of developing specific medical conditions. Gallbladder problems, pancreatitis, kidney disease, liver disease, a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (thyroid cancer), Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia Syndrome Type 2 (MEN2), diabetic retinopathy (eye problems), high cholesterol or triglyceride levels, any digestive disorders, and pregnant individuals or those planning pregnancy should avoid these medications.”
Weight loss success rates
Prof. Dr. Nilgün Tekkeşin also stated that findings obtained after approximately one year of treatment on how effective GLP-1s are in helping people lose weight showed 10 kg with one medication and 15 kg with another. She added, “Unfortunately, as with other weight loss medications, patients regain most of the weight they lost, especially if they stop the medication before one year. Furthermore, the medications are very expensive, need to be stored in the refrigerator, and some side effects, usually mild to moderate, are observed in 90 percent of people.”
Expert recommendations
Prof. Dr. Nilgün Tekkeşin offered recommendations to those considering weight loss treatment and wishing to use diabetes medications: “Diabetes medications are not suitable for everyone. Understanding your options can help you and your doctor make the best decision for you. If you are curious about these treatment options but are not a Type 2 diabetes patient, consult your doctor about alternatives to diabetes medications. Discuss with your doctor or an obesity medicine specialist what the best approach is for you. Remember that while using these medications, you may encounter potential side effects ranging from common nausea and indigestion to more serious stomach, gallbladder, and kidney problems. However, individuals with a personal or family history of thyroid cancer should not use injectable diabetes medications for weight loss.”