(Chelsea Update would like to thank Von Lozon and Dr. Nabeel Obeid for the information in this story.)
GLP-1 medications, such as Ozempic, Mounjaro, and Zepbound, have seen a rise in popularity over the last few years, but how effective are they in the long run? Dr. Nabeel Obeid, a bariatric surgeon at Chelsea Hospital, spoke with The Chelsea Update to discuss these weight-loss medications, why bariatric surgery is the best option for long-term results, and more.
Q: What is bariatric surgery, and it is anyone a candidate for it?
Dr. Obeid: Patients must meet certain criteria to qualify for bariatric surgery. Typically, a good candidate for surgery is someone with obesity (current guidelines recommend surgery for BMI 30 or more), particularly if they are also experiencing weight-related health conditions like diabetes, sleep apnea, infertility, or high cholesterol.
There are a few different types of bariatric surgery, but all of them work by altering the patient’s anatomy, which affects their sensation of hunger, appetite, and feeling full. These changes offer benefits beyond weight loss and can improve conditions like sleep apnea, hypertension (high blood pressure), and even reversing diabetes. Bariatric surgery has also been shown to lower the risk of heart disease and certain types of cancer.
Q: What are GLP-1 medications, and what are they designed to do?
Dr. Obeid: A GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) medication is used primarily to help manage Type 2 diabetes, but it is also designed to help people lose weight. The public may know common GLP-1 brand names such as Ozempic, Mounjaro, and Zepbound.
These medications work by mimicking this hormone to help with the following:
- Increase insulin secretion: The medications stimulate the pancreas when blood sugar levels are high, which helps lower blood sugar.
- Reduce glucagon secretion: They also help lower the release of glucagon, a hormone that raises blood sugar, thus reducing the amount of sugar released by the liver.
- Slow gastric emptying: Delaying the process of food leaving the stomach helps you stay full for longer.
Q: Since they both help people lose weight, how do GLP-1 medications compare to bariatric surgery in terms of long-term effectiveness?
Dr. Obeid: GLP-1 medications can be very effective and are a good option for people that may not be candidates for bariatric surgery, or in coordination before or after bariatric surgery. With that said, bariatric surgery remains the best option for long-term weight loss, but both options truly only work long-term if the patient commits to changing their lifestyle. That means that patient, on a regular basis, would eat a balanced and nutritious diet, and get some form of regular physical activity.
Q: Can GLP-1 medications work hand-in-hand with bariatric surgery?
Dr. Obeid: Absolutely, GLP-1 medications can be a great complement to bariatric surgery by enhancing weight loss or maintaining post-surgery weight loss. Some patients who have undergone surgery may still struggle with hunger or regain weight over time, so taking a GLP-1 medication can help control the patient’s appetite and improve metabolic outcomes. But again, the patient’s overall lifestyle is what’s most important for long-term success. Having a balanced diet and exercising regularly are key to keeping weight off.
However, the one thing that these weight-loss medications will never do is provide patients with the support that they receive at Chelsea Hospital. Along with the surgeons, patients meet with nutritionists, psychologists, endocrinologists, and so many others to ensure they are receiving the highest quality care possible and reaching their goals.
Q: Is there anything else you’d like to share?
Dr. Obeid: Weight management is a lifelong commitment, and bariatric surgery is not a quick fix or “the easy way out.” It’s not just about a procedure or medication, but about making lasting changes in how you eat and your relationship with food. Surgery and medications can jumpstart the process, but the sustained results come afterward through ongoing support, healthy habits, and regular check-ups.
For more information about bariatric surgery at Chelsea Hospital, visit www.chelseabariatrics.org or call 734-936-5738.
