When people hear about GLP-1 medications, they often picture dramatic weight loss and newfound confidence. Across the Gold Coast, these weight loss medications have become popular tools for tackling obesity. But while the headlines highlight the benefits, few people are talking about the lesser-known side effects.
GLP-1 receptor agonists, such as semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro, Zepbound) might be effective, but they can lead to unexpected side effects that patients should be aware of on their health journey.
Gastrointestinal Upsets
Many patients using GLP-1 medications, such as semaglutide or liraglutide, experience common gastrointestinal side effects. Nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea and constipation are the usual suspects. While these symptoms typically improve over time, they can affect your quality of life, especially during the initial stages of treatment.
Unexpected Appetite and Taste Impact
GLP-1 medications work by slowing gastric emptying and reducing appetite, but some patients report an almost complete loss of interest in food. While weight loss is the goal, extreme appetite suppression can lead to malnutrition if not addressed.
Others notice changes in taste, finding certain foods less appealing or even unpleasant. It is essential for patients to maintain a balanced diet and seek guidance from healthcare providers to avoid nutritional deficiencies while on weight loss medications.
Mood and Emotional Effects
Few people expect weight loss medications to affect their mood, but some report feelings of anxiety, irritability or even mild depression. Although these emotional changes are less common, they can still catch patients off guard. It is important to monitor mental health closely and communicate openly with healthcare professionals if mood changes arise. Emotional wellness plays a huge role in long-term success and early intervention can make all the difference.
Gallbladder and Pancreatic Risks
Rare gallbladder problems, like gallstones, can develop in some people using GLP-1 medications. Symptoms such as sharp abdominal pain, nausea or jaundice need immediate medical evaluation.
There have been concerns about pancreatitis, a potentially serious condition. Patients should be aware of warning signs such as severe abdominal pain that radiates to the back and seek prompt care if needed.
Medication Versus Surgery
GLP-1 weight loss medications administered on the Gold Coast are a beneficial/?advantageous/?contemporary tool for improving metabolic health, lowering blood sugar and reducing cardiovascular risks in people with obesity. However, they require ongoing use, medical monitoring and careful management of potential side effects like nausea, gastrointestinal discomfort and, in rare cases, pancreatitis.
A more permanent solution is found in surgical options and may provide long-term metabolic benefits without the need for continuous medication.
A final consideration is cost. Private health insurance typically does not cover the cost of weight loss medications, including GLP-1s, unless they are being used for an approved condition like diabetes. Non-subsidised medicine costs can add up to $30,000–$50,000 over a 5 to 10 year period, depending on patient needs.
This excludes blood tests, medication for side effects and regular check-ins with your doctor. Plus, the majority of those who stop taking the medication regain their weight.
Most Australian private health insurance policies focus on hospital and surgical costs, not outpatient medications, unless you have an extras policy with pharmacy cover, and even then, rebates are usually small (e.g., $100–$500 per year total across all non-PBS medications).
For surgery, private health insurance can cover a large portion of costs if the patient has the right level of coverage and has served their waiting period, making surgery more affordable than many people realise.
Stay informed about weight loss medications from experts that people on the Gold Coast trust! Book a consultation with Dr Puhalla today.