NYC doctors warn against unsupervised use of weight loss drugs

NEW YORK (PIX11) – In a society that has so many people who are overweight, it is understandable there’s such a craze for new drugs that are helping people to lose weight.

Drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy were developed for people with diabetes but have proven to be great resources for losing weight. They’re known by different brands, but they are all peptide drugs proving to have more benefits than originally expected. Doctors caution people not to take them without medical supervision.

Since coming on the market, these drugs have helped thousands of people to control their diabetes. And it’s helped many folks lose a good deal of weight. But there could be a risk.

On the PIX11 News morning show, weight loss specialist Dr. Sue Decotiis recommended patients first undergo a body composition analysis:

“What it tells me of all the components of the body is just how much fat and water there is, so when I’m treating them, I can see what’s happening.”

These drugs mimic natural hormones to regulate digestion and appetite, making them highly effective in combatting diabetes, along with the side effects of weight loss. But Dr. Decotiis stressed that with the drug, you have to drink plenty of water. She explained,” The hydration is essential to drink water. Every person who takes this drug is extremely hydrated. For every ounce of fat you lose, you’re losing water.”

Though rare, there are potential negative side effects, including nausea, vomiting, constipation, abdominal pain, and pancreatitis. But as the medical community is learning, there are a growing number of benefits from these drugs.

A recent study found that they could slow the decline of mild Alzheimer’s disease. Brain research specialist Dr. Phil Defina said these drugs increase blood flow to the brain and help neurons stay healthy. He noted, “These peptides change the electromagnetic field and brain chemistry, altering transmitters in a way that impacts cognition positively, improving memory and executive functioning.”

The question often arises about how long you have to stay on these drugs for weight loss. Dr.  Decotiis claimed, “It’s untrue you have to be on this the rest of your life unless you have diabetes on for two years resistant. But long term, they’re safe.”

There have been reports of people regaining weight once they’ve stopped taking the drugs. The medication has also helped people curb their smoking and drinking habits.

Studies continue to determine what other benefits these drugs might produce.

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