Hyderabad: Health experts are advising caution when using medications for obesity. They emphasize that these drugs should be used wisely and with the right approach.
Obesity is a significant health concern in the city, with over 47% of people affected. It increases the risk of serious conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and hypertension. Dr. Khizer Hussain Junaidy, a General Physician and Diabetologist at Caspian Healthcare, emphasizes that medications are tools, not shortcuts, and should be used properly.
The use of anti-obesity drugs like oral semaglutide, tirzepatide, and injectable semaglutide is rising. This shift indicates a move from solely behavioral weight management to using scientifically supported drugs. The main concern isn’t the drugs, which are generally safe when prescribed correctly, but the belief that medication alone can replace healthy eating and exercise. People might expect quick results without lifestyle changes, leading to disappointment or stopping the treatment early.
Dr. Hussain notes that while side effects like nausea and constipation are real, they are manageable. These drugs reduce appetite but don’t teach portion control or emotional eating management. He stresses that medications should be part of a supervised weight management plan, not used alone.
Dr. Mujeeb Afzal, a Consultant Endocrinologist at Renova Bibi Cancer Hospital, explains that the drugs work but should be used carefully. People typically lose weight while on them, but often regain it after stopping. Obesity is a chronic, relapsing issue. Lifestyle changes like diet and exercise remain the safest and most sustainable methods, though they have limitations, such as weight loss slowing after some time and weight regain if the lifestyle changes are not maintained.
