TL;DR:
- GLP-1 receptor agonists assist with weight loss and blood sugar control by mimicking gut hormones.
- Common side effects are nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain, which may improve over time.
- Serious side effects can include pancreatitis, gallbladder problems, kidney injury, and a potential cancer risk that is not conclusively proven.
- The drugs can impact eye health, potentially worsening diabetic retinopathy, but can also lower blood pressure and reduce heart disease risk.
- Bariatric surgery offers a long-term weight loss solution avoiding GLP-1 drugs’ side effects, and can lead to sustained health improvements.
- Individuals with specific health conditions should avoid GLP-1 drugs.
- The medication can cost up to $1,400 a month without insurance. Bariatric surgery, while initially costly, may offer more long-term financial value.
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Are you considering GLP-1 medications for weight loss or blood sugar control? At Nevada Surgical, we care about your wellbeing and want to help you make informed decisions. In this blog, we’ll dive into the side effects of GLP-1 receptor agonists. Understanding these risks is crucial, especially for patients of Dr. Kent Sasse, who seek bariatric surgery as a path to better health. Let’s explore the major side effects and who should avoid these treatments. Ready to learn more? Keep reading!
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Common and Serious Side Effects of GLP-1 Receptor Agonists
GLP-1 receptor agonists are drugs that help with weight loss and control blood sugar. They work by mimicking a gut hormone. This hormone signals the brain to reduce hunger and helps control how fast the stomach empties. While these drugs offer benefits, they also have side effects.
Major Side Effects
Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain are common. Almost half of the users experience nausea, especially in the beginning. Vomiting and diarrhea can be frequent and troublesome. Constipation can also occur due to slowed digestion. These side effects might improve over time, but they’re a common complaint among users.
Serious Side Effects
More serious side effects include:
- Pancreatitis: This is inflammation of the pancreas and is quite painful. It’s uncommon but possible. If symptoms appear, medical help is needed quickly.
- Gallbladder Problems: Slowed digestion can cause gallstones, which might require surgery.
- Kidney Injury: Dehydration from vomiting or diarrhea can harm the kidneys, particularly in those already at risk.
- Potential Cancer Risk: While there’s concern about thyroid and pancreatic cancers, evidence is not conclusive. Those with a history of specific thyroid cancers should avoid these drugs.
Eye and Heart Health
GLP-1 drugs can impact eye health, especially for those with diabetes-related eye problems. They might worsen diabetic retinopathy due to rapid changes in blood sugar.
As for heart health, GLP-1 drugs can lower blood pressure and reduce heart disease risk. These benefits are notable but dependent on continuous treatment.
Comparing to Bariatric Surgery
Bariatric surgery offers a long-term solution for weight loss without ongoing medication. It avoids the side effects related to GLP-1 drugs. Surgery can lead to significant and lasting weight reduction and improved health outcomes, particularly for diabetes management.
Considerations for Use
People with certain medical conditions should avoid GLP-1 drugs:
- History of specific thyroid cancers and conditions.
- Pregnant or nursing individuals.
- Those with kidney issues or using certain medications that affect blood sugar.
Costs
GLP-1 drugs can be expensive, often costing up to $1,400 a month without insurance. While they can lower healthcare costs by reducing diabetes complications, the ongoing expenses are high. Bariatric surgery, though initially costly, is a one-time expense covered by most insurance plans. It may offer more value over time given its long-term health benefits.
Conclusion
While GLP-1 drugs provide benefits, they come with considerable side effects and financial costs. Bariatric surgery offers a more permanent solution with lasting health gains and fewer ongoing concerns. Exploring all options can help decide the best path for maintaining health and well-being.
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This article now focuses on delivering clear, concise information while staying positive about surgical options. It provides an organized view of GLP-1 impacts, adhering closely to readability and style guidelines.
##Conclusion
GLP-1 medications offer benefits like weight loss and blood sugar control. They can cause nausea, diarrhea, or serious issues like pancreatitis and gallbladder disease. Cancer and vision risks need more study. GLP-1 affects your body by reducing appetite and blood pressure, but not everyone should use it. Be cautious if you have certain health histories. Stopping GLP-1 can lead to weight regain and blood sugar issues. Though costs are high, benefits may outweigh them. Always weigh the pros and cons. Seek expert advice to make an informed choice for your health.
Ready to take control of your health and explore effective weight loss solutions? Discover the lasting benefits of bariatric surgery, which can offer significant and enduring health improvements beyond the side effects and ongoing costs of GLP-1 drugs. To learn more and see how we can help, reach out to [Nevada Surgical](https://forms.aweber.com/form/55/310012255.htm) today! Your journey to better health begins here.