Treatment Methods for Obesity
GLP-1 Medications
GLP-1 drugs (GLP-1 receptor analogues or agonists) are modern preparations used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes and obesity that mimic the action of the natural intestinal hormone.
Most popular substances:
Semaglutide: Ozempic, Wegovy
Liraglutide: Saxenda, Victoza
Dulaglutide: Trulicity
Tirzepatide: Mounjaro
GLP-1 is a hormone produced after a meal. It regulates blood sugar, slows digestion, and signals satiety to the brain.
It stimulates insulin only when needed and reduces glucagon, helping maintain stable glucose levels.
It also slows stomach emptying and reduces appetite, making it highly effective in weight control.
Bariatric Surgery Methods
1. Gastric Bypass
A small stomach pouch is created and connected to the small intestine.
Advantages- Rapid weight loss (60–80%)
- Improves metabolic health
- Nutritional deficiencies
- More invasive
2. Gastric Sleeve
75–80% of the stomach is removed, reducing hunger hormones.
Advantages- Less invasive
- Strong weight loss
- Irreversible
- Possible reflux
3. Gastric Band
A silicone band creates a smaller stomach pouch.
Advantages- Reversible
- Lower risk
- Lower effectiveness
- Possible complications
4. Duodenal Switch
Combination of stomach reduction and intestinal bypass.
Advantages- Highest weight loss
- Effective for severe obesity
- High deficiency risk
- Complex surgery