Weight loss surgery remains the most effective, long-term intervention for weight management. However, some people experience a change in their gut hormone levels after a few years and notice an increase in appetite which can result in weight regain. The newer weight loss medications are now extremely helpful to be considered to complement your surgical outcomes.
We offer two different, once weekly injectable (GP1-analogue) medications: Mounjaro® and Wegovy®. These are the two most effective weight loss medications that can be prescribed after bariatric surgery.
- How do they work? GLP-1 analogues enhances insulin secretion, inhibits glucagon release, and slows gastric emptying. This can reduce hunger, increase fullness and change food preference.
- How do I take them? Self-administered, once-weekly via an injectable pen.
- Who does it work for? It is effective for chronic weight management and can be effective to support weight loss after bariatric surgery.
Are weight loss medications suitable for me?
You may be suitable for these weight loss medications if:
- Your BMI is above 30, or
- Your BMI is above 27 AND you have at least one weight-related health condition, for example:
- Type 2 diabetes
- Hypertension
- Dyslipidemia
- Sleep apnoea
- You are ready to make lifestyle changes to improve the success of the medication
Further consideration on your suitability needs to be assessed by a licensed healthcare professional who will review your health history.
What do I need to consider?
Medical Supervision: These medications should be taken under the supervision of a healthcare provider to monitor for side effects and effectiveness.
Individualised Approach: The choice of medication depends on individual patient needs, medical history, and the type of bariatric surgery performed.
Lifestyle Changes: Medications are most effective when combined with lifestyle modifications, including diet and exercise.
Potential Side Effects: All weight loss medications have potential side effects, and their risks and benefits should be discussed with a healthcare provider.
How can we support you with weight loss medication after bariatric surgery at Verve Health Group?
You will no doubt have questions about whether medication is suitable for you. Verve Health Group specialises in weight management and unlike many weight loss medication providers, we have the clinical experience and skills in the use of these medications, as well as being experts in providing care after bariatric surgery. One of our specialist dietitians will assess you to discuss:
Your Weight Loss Surgery: It is important to understand your experience of surgery and when you started to notice a change in your appetite and eating habits.
Your Medical History: A thorough medical evaluation is essential to identify any contraindications or potential risks.
Potential Side Effects: Common side effects include nausea, diarrhoea, constipation, and headaches.
The dietitians will then discuss your care with our multidisciplinary team which includes bariatric surgeons, an endocrinologist and clinical psychologists, to ensure we are providing you with the best possible options.
Monitoring and Follow-Up: Regular follow-up visits via Zoom will be planned to monitor your weight loss progress, any side effects, and overall health. Our specialist dietitians will also help you to work on habit change that you need support with.
Holistic Care: You may want to include additional support for your health and weight management, this might include:
Annual Nutritional Blood Monitoring: After weight loss surgery annual blood tests help detect deficiencies early, ensuring timely intervention and preventing long-term complications. These blood tests are often conducted by your GP but a Nutritional Review with a specialist dietitian will give you time to go through the results to help understand how your vitamin and mineral supplements and dietary intake can affect your nutritional health, and advise you of any changes that you need to make.
Psychological Support: If you have had weight loss surgery, you will know that it is a very effective tool for weight management but you also need to make sustainable habit change. Sometimes mood can fluctuate and old patterns of coping with food can return. Our specialist clinical psychologists can explore what is getting in your way of making change and also support you with your emotional wellbeing.
Weight loss medications can be a valuable tool for if you have noticed weight regain after bariatric surgery. It's crucial to work closely with a healthcare provider to determine the best strategy tailored to your individual needs and to ensure safe and effective use of these medications.
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