As someone who has spent over two decades in Health and Wellness helping people, employers and insurers navigate the intricate world of health promotion, I’m no stranger to questions that stem from the latest health trends, diets and medications. Lately, however, one topic keeps coming up: GLP-1 receptor agonists like Wegovy and Ozempic.

Turn on the TV, scroll online, or chat with colleagues, and you’ll hear about them. But what strikes me isn’t just the frequency of these conversations, it’s the tone. Many people are curious yet skeptical, hopeful yet hesitant, wondering, “should I take this?”  And that’s why I think the conversation may be missing something crucial – shared decision-making.

Before I dive into a nuanced discussion of these medications, let me be clear: I am not a clinician and can’t tell you if you should or should not take one.  But what I can offer is a perspective and a reminder that weight loss medications, like all medical interventions, are tools in a toolbox.  They are not a magic solution to health and wellness challenges.

I’ve had the privilege of studying, delivering and evaluating a range of weight-loss interventions over the years, including approaches like gastric bypass surgeries and a host of dietary and lifestyle strategies. Through all this, the most important lesson I’ve learned is that there is no one-size-fits-all approach and all successful interventions are multi-faceted.  Every person is unique, and the most effective way to make an informed decision about your health is through shared decision-making; a collaboration between you, your healthcare provider and any support team you choose to bring into the picture.

GLP-1s have demonstrated effectiveness in promoting weight loss by reducing appetite, increasing satiety and improving metabolic health.  Research shows they hold promise for individuals with obesity and related conditions like Type 2 diabetes.  However, their benefits need to be carefully weighed against potential side effects, long-term efficacy and, importantly, cost.  It’s a balancing act! For those of us who work in the wellness space, the guiding principle has always been about the long-term. And while GLP-1s may offer relatively rapid weight loss, they should not be viewed as a one-and-done answer. They are a tool that needs to be part of a larger, holistic strategy for sustainable health improvements.

I recently reconnected with a Medical Director who shaped my early career. He reminded me of a piece of advice he gave almost 20 years ago and still recites today: “Never start a medication without a plan for getting off of it.”  I can’t help but think that this wisdom applies here.  I know the complexities of integrating GLP-1s into healthcare and benefits programs. Employers and insurers must weigh access, costs and outcomes. But for individuals considering these medications, the core question remains: Is this the right choice for me?  I encourage anyone who is asking this question to be their own advocate and partner to with your care team to develop your plan.   After all, weight loss should never be just about the number on the scale. The meaningful goal is long-term health, and that requires more than a prescription.

Next week, I will explore things to consider to help make the right choice for you.

Carolyn Kontos, MS, ACC, offers Wellness & Nutrition Coaching at the JCC through her Eat Well Programs. For more information, contact Carolyn at ckontos@jccpgh.org

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