Side Effects of Weight-Loss Drugs and Injectables to Watch For
While weight-loss drugs and injectables can be an effective short-term strategy, the long-term success and tolerance for side effects of these medications is still being researched. Medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, Saxenda and Mounjaro can be effective weight-loss tools, but it's important to be aware of potential side effects and monitor your health closely throughout your weight-loss journey.
Below are common side effects that patients should watch for and discuss with their doctor.
1. Gastrointestinal Issues:
Many weight-loss drugs and injectables alter the hormones involved in the function of the intestinal tract, as well as the communication with the hunger and fullness portion of the brain. The trade-off with these medications is that they can lead to side effects like nausea, diarrhea, constipation, or stomach cramps. These symptoms can be uncomfortable and may even discourage patients from continuing with their weight-loss plan.
It's essential to communicate any persistent gastrointestinal issues such as severe abdominal pain with your healthcare provider to adjust your treatment plan if necessary.
2. Increased Heart Rate and Blood Pressure:
Certain weight-loss drugs and injectables can affect your cardiovascular system, leading to increased heart rate and blood pressure. Elevated blood pressure can pose significant health risks if left unmonitored, such as an increased risk of heart disease and stroke. Regular blood pressure checks are essential for individuals taking these medications to ensure their safety.
3. Mood Changes and Anxiety:
Weight-loss drugs that affect neurotransmitters in the brain can sometimes lead to mood changes, including feelings of anxiety, irritability, or depression. Patients should be vigilant in monitoring their emotional well-being while on these medications and report any concerning mood changes to their healthcare provider.
4. Thyroid Health:
Certain weight-loss medications may affect the thyroid. If there is a development of a new thyroid nodule or pain at the level of the thyroid gland in the neck, it needs to be addressed with your doctor.
Valuable Tool
Weight-loss drugs and injectables can be valuable tools to use towards your weight-loss goals, but patients should stay in close communication with their healthcare providers throughout their weight-loss journey. Monitoring your health and well-being is crucial to ensure that the benefits of these medications outweigh the risks, ultimately leading to a healthier and happier you.
“One of the main features of New York Bariatric Group’s medical weight loss program is that it offers a holistic approach to patients struggling with obesity” says Dr. Leon Katz, Director of Medical Weight Loss at New York Bariatric Group. “Our team of doctors and nutritionists can get you the best care with a comprehensive approach to medical weight loss.”
New York Bariatric Group: Weight Loss Leader
New York Bariatric Group’s doctor-supervised medical weight loss program is committed to patient safety and well-being. Patients benefit from regular monitoring and follow-up appointments. This ongoing supervision allows doctors to make necessary adjustments to a patient’s treatment plan based on their progress and any changes in their health status. It ensures that the weight loss journey is personalized and optimized for each individual, leading to more effective outcomes.
New York Bariatric Group is a leader in long-term weight-loss solutions. Their bariatric practice is the best around and they have the numbers to prove it:
- Over 30 surgeons who are leaders in bariatrics, plastic surgery, veins, and medical weight loss.
- 36,000 successful procedures performed with more every day
- The #1 gastric balloon practice by volume – most balloons placed in the United States
- Access to online seminars, support groups, cooking demos, and Q-and-A sessions
- 100s of videos for patients explaining procedures, answering common questions, and showcasing previous patients
- Multiple offices located in three states; NY, NJ, CT
- Since 2000, we boast over 23 years of success!
All of our hospitals are Metabolic Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program (MBSAQIP) accredited facilities, which is a prestigious designation bestowed upon only the top-quality bariatric programs.
Stop waiting; start achieving better health today. Together, we’ve got this!
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