South Middlesex Times

GLP-1 agonists, a class of medications including Ozempic and Wegovy, have garnered attention for their efficacy in managing Type 2 diabetes and obesity. Professors Keerthana Kesavarapu and Kunal Shah from the Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, who lead the Rutgers Center of Metabolic Health and Weight Management, discussed the implications of these drugs for obesity treatment.

Kesavarapu noted that "with the advent of GLP-1 agonists like Ozempic, we're seeing weight loss results almost comparable to bariatric surgery but with fewer risks and side effects." She emphasized that while bariatric surgery remains relevant, these medications are expected to play an increasingly significant role in treating obesity.

Shah highlighted recent improvements in medication availability and insurance coverage. "When we started our clinic two years ago, availability was a major issue," he said. However, they now face fewer challenges in obtaining medication for patients. He mentioned that insurance coverage has improved for commercial plans but acknowledged ongoing issues with Medicare, Medicaid, and charity care coverage. Shah expressed optimism about potential changes in Medicare's inclusion of weight loss medications.

Kesavarapu shared insights from a recent study on high-fiber diets' impact on appetite pathways in obese individuals. The study found that such diets could alter satiety hormones and brain responses to high-fat foods while promoting beneficial changes in the gut microbiome. These findings suggest that dietary fiber can enhance the effectiveness of GLP-1 agonists by improving appetite regulation and metabolic health.

Shah advised those on weight-loss medications to aim for at least 25 grams of fiber daily from whole foods like vegetables, fruits with skins, legumes, and seeds. He also recommended increasing fiber intake gradually with adequate water to avoid digestive discomfort.

Looking ahead, Shah anticipated significant developments in obesity treatment over the next five to ten years. He mentioned new medications under development, including potential oral versions of current injectable drugs and improvements in existing medications with higher doses and fewer side effects.

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