In Estonia, over 60% of people are overweight. Doctors see this every day. General practitioner Anu Valkna says that 10-15% of her patients receive weight loss medications. The use of these medications is on the rise.
Nutritionist Artur Minenko says that 75-85% of his patients use weight loss medications. Studies show that medications like Ozempic and Wegovy reduce various addictions. These medications contain GLP-1 agonists.
Doctor Valkna noted that the medications reduce snacking and emotional eating. Alcohol consumption also decreases. Minenko says that some patients no longer want to smoke or drink alcohol.
Weight loss medications are expensive. Ozempic costs about 90 euros per month, Wegovy 150 euros. The Health Insurance Fund does not cover these medications. Doctor Valkna says that some patients cannot afford the medications because they are too expensive.
Minenko emphasizes that using the medications requires discipline. The patient must be ready to change their lifestyle. The side effects of the medications can be serious, such as diarrhea or vomiting.
Weight loss medication is not a miracle cure. After the medication course, one must change their diet and exercise habits. Minenko says that about a third of patients regain weight after stopping the medications.
Doctor Valkna and Minenko say that the help of a nutritionist is very important. Unfortunately, many patients cannot afford it. Valkna says that nutrition education should start already in kindergarten.
Minenko adds that successful weight loss requires several things: diet, exercise, and good sleep. Medication alone is not enough.