The Rise of GLP-1s in Weight Loss
Over the past year, GLP-1 medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Zepbound have dramatically reshaped the conversation around weight loss. These drugs were created to treat type 2 diabetes, but have side effects that contribute to weight loss. The increasing popularity of GLP-1s has people questioning which is right for them: bariatric surgery or GLP-1s?
In the recent weeks, Novo Nordisk has faced a lawsuit of over $2 billion dollars and is under intense legal investigation for not giving adequate education and warning to patients for GLP-1 injections. Ozempic patients have reported symptoms of gastroparesis (stomach paralysis), vomiting, and vision problems. While some users do not experience these symptoms, it is important to note that drugs like Ozempic come with great risks and should be handled with care. At West Texas Bariatrics we take education on these topics very seriously and we want our patients to be fully informed before starting any new treatments.
GLP-1s regulate blood sugar by boosting insulin and promote a feeling of fullness which reduces overall food intake. These are administered by the patient through weekly injections. Bariatric surgery can include procedures like laparoscopic gastric bypass, or a laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy. Both of these procedures alter the digestive system to help with weight loss by either restricting food intake or rerouting the intestines.
Eligibility and Efficacy: GLP-1s vs. Bariatric Surgery
There are some differences in who is eligible for bariatric surgery or GLP-1s. According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, to be eligible for bariatric surgery, patients must be healthy enough to undergo the procedure. Patients should have a BMI of 40 or higher. Those with a BMI between 35 and 40 qualify if they have an obesity-related condition such as high blood pressure, sleep apnea, reflux, high cholesterol, or other related issues. For GLP-1s, patients must have a BMI of 30 or higher. They may also qualify with a lower BMI if they have type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea, or hypertension.
The efficacy for these two methods can vary. After bariatric surgery, patients may lose 60–70% of body weight and are more likely to maintain long-term weight loss. GLP-1s can reduce excess weight by 20% or about 30 pounds, but stopping requires major lifestyle changes to maintain results.
Costs, Combination, and Considerations
Bariatric surgery can be more cost effective in the long run compared to GLP-1s according to the American College of Surgeons. Although bariatric surgery costs more upfront than GLP-1s, many find the one-time payment more effective for long-term weight loss. This compares to the ongoing cost and injections required with GLP-1s to maintain similar results.
Lots of times, patients see even better results when they combine GLP-1s with bariatric surgery. They can either include the injections before or after surgery to aid in the weight loss. Also, by being prescribed GLP-1s prior to surgery, it can make the operation safer for the patient. According to a study done at the IU School of Medicine, the use of GLP-1s in the year before bariatric surgery has increased from 8% to 24% since 2018.
Ultimately, the right choice depends on each patient’s unique needs, eligibility, and lifestyle.
Start your Weight Loss Journey
If you’re considering weight loss treatments in Lubbock, TX, West Texas Bariatrics is here to help. Our dedicated team of experts and surgeons is excited to guide you every step of the way on your path to a healthier future. Contact us today at (806) 771-2222 to begin your journey.
