At a recent panel hosted by Tufts University, Dr. Dariush Mozaffarian and other experts discussed the effectiveness and limitations of GLP-1 drugs for weight loss. These medications, celebrated for their significant impact on weight reduction, are not a cure for the obesity epidemic. While they can lead to a 10-18% weight loss, the effects tend to plateau after about 18 months, and many patients face challenges such as high costs, side effects, and difficulties maintaining weight loss long-term.
Experts emphasize the importance of combining these drugs with a structured lifestyle support system, including “food is medicine” programs, to achieve sustainable results. Such programs integrate nutritional interventions into healthcare and could be a more cost-effective solution compared to the high expense of GLP-1 drugs alone.
Pat Gleason from Prime Therapeutics pointed out the decline in adherence to GLP-1 therapies over time and the high costs involved, which make them impractical for widespread use. The discussion highlights the need for policy changes to improve the accessibility and affordability of comprehensive lifestyle support and nutrition services.
For more details, read the full article by Elaine Watson: GLP-1 Drugs Are a Tool, Not a Panacea, Says Tufts Professor.