In 1999, Xenical (orlistat), a lipase inhibitor, was approved for weight loss.
BMI is a dated, flawed measure.
It does not take into account factors such asbody composition, ethnicity, sex, race, and age.
Joe Raedle / Getty Images
Prior to these medications, most anti-obesity medications were modestly effective.
And 25 years ago, that was Xenical.
However, GLP-1s show three to four times the effectiveness as Xenical.
These lower-dose versions are found in most grocery stores and pharmacies and can also be purchased online.
Zepboundis a dual-acting GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist thats approved to treat pop in 2 diabetes and obesity.
Wegovyis a GLP-1 receptor antagonist thats approved to treat obesity.
A smaller number of people achieved a 10% reduction in body weight.
So, while Xenical works, GLP-1s just seem to work better.
How Theyre Taken
Another key difference between Xenical and newer weight loss drugs is administration.
Xenical is an oral capsule thats taken three times a day, one dose with each meal.
Zepbound and Wegovy are not taken orally.
The dose can be taken with or without food.
The Wegovy injection pen comes in different doses (0.25 mg2.4 mg).
The Zepbound injection pen comes in a single dose.
People typically start with a dose of 2.5 mg for four weeks.
The dose is incrementally increased each week as tolerated until a maximum dose of 15 mg is reached.
Many people who might benefit from prescription weight loss medications cant access them due to the cost.
Cost is prohibitive and insurance coverage is the main issue, said Azagury.
There are some side effects, but the benefits vastly [outweigh] the risks and side effects.
Are Any Non-GLP-1 Drugs FDA-Approved for Weight Loss?
Weight loss medication is a good strategy to reduce obesity, but its a multi-pronged approach.
Prevention is key as a nation and is the ultimate goal, said Azagury.
But that will take decades/generations.
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