What Older Adults Should Know About New Weight Loss Drugs
Sema-what now?
Semaglutide is a medication that belongs to a class of drugs known as GLP-1 receptor agonists. It was first approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2017 to treat type 2 diabetes. The drug works by mimicking the effects of a hormone that plays an important role in regulating blood sugar and digestion. The drug affects areas in the brain that regulate appetite and food intake. By activating these brain receptors, it helps curb cravings and decrease appetite, leading to a natural reduction in food consumption.
Clinical trials have shown that, when used in conjunction with lifestyle changes like diet and exercise, semaglutide can lead to significant weight loss. For this reason, it has been approved by the FDA for chronic weight management in adults with obesity or overweight with at least one weight-related condition such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol.
Weight loss in older age
Older adults often face unique challenges when it comes to weight loss, including slower metabolism and higher risks for weight-related health conditions. Semaglutide can be particularly beneficial for this age group due to its dual action on both blood sugar control and weight reduction. Here are a few key benefits:
Improved metabolic health: By enhancing insulin efficiency and lowering blood sugar levels, semaglutide can help manage or prevent the progression of type 2 diabetes, a condition affecting 29%of older adults.
Weight loss: For older adults who need to lose weight, semaglutide offers a viable way to achieve significant weight reduction, which can lead to improvements in mobility, reduced joint pain, and better overall health.
Cardiovascular health: Weight loss can also contribute to improved heart health, especially important for older adults at increased risk of heart disease.
In a large clinical trial, people with obesity but not diabetes taking semaglutide for more than 3 years had a 20% lower risk of heart attack, stroke or death due to cardiovascular disease and lost an average of 9.4% of their body weight.
“This news is very encouraging for people with overweight or obesity,” said lead study author A. Michael Lincoff, M.D. No treatment specifically directed at the management of obesity and overweight in people without type 1 or type 2 diabetes has been tested in a randomized trial and been shown to influence cardiovascular outcomes.”
As scientists continue to study semaglutide, the benefits continue to stack up. Scientists from two different studies recently discovered that a secondary effect of taking semaglutide for weight loss was a significant reduction in alcohol use disorder and overall alcohol consumption. Another study showed improved kidney function in patients with HIV.
For older adults looking at effective ways to manage their weight and improve their metabolic health, semaglutide may be a promising option. As with any medication, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider to discuss whether semaglutide is appropriate for your individual health needs and circumstances. Together, you can consider the benefits and potential side effects to make an informed decision that aligns with your health goals.