As women transition into menopause, many are confronting significant weight gain, prompting a growing reliance on weight loss medications. For some, these drugs are proving to be effective allies during this challenging life stage.
Yokasta Mooney, 54, experienced a substantial weight increase during her menopause journey, reaching her highest weight ever. “I was desperate at this point,” Mooney shared with Good Morning America, noting that none of her clothes fit. In her quest for a solution, she turned to Ozempic, a medication typically prescribed for Type 2 diabetes, which she credits with helping her shed 30 pounds. After discontinuing the drug, she successfully lost an additional 30 pounds through a combination of exercise and careful dietary tracking. “I realized throughout the process that we often underestimate our actual food intake,” she explained.
Mooney’s experience reflects a broader trend among women navigating menopause, where hormonal fluctuations can complicate weight management. As the popularity of medications such as Ozempic, Mounjaro, Wegovy, and Zepbound rises, healthcare providers are increasingly prescribing these options to women seeking assistance with weight control during menopause.
Dr. Jessica Shepherd, a board-certified OB-GYN, emphasized the emotional toll of weight gain during this phase. “Many of my patients feel guilty about gaining weight,” she told GMA. “It is crucial for them to understand that this weight gain is not their fault.”
Both Ozempic and Mounjaro are FDA-approved for treating Type 2 diabetes but are often prescribed off-label for weight loss. Additionally, Wegovy and Zepbound are FDA-approved specifically for weight management. These medications work by increasing insulin production in the pancreas, slowing gastric emptying, and reducing appetite, leading to weight loss.
Clinical studies have shown that individuals using these medications can expect to lose between 5% to 20% of their body weight over time. However, potential side effects include nausea, constipation, and more serious risks such as gallbladder and pancreatic diseases. Manufacturers recommend that patients discuss these risks with healthcare professionals before starting treatment.
Another woman, Lisa Cockrell, 56, shared her positive experience with Mounjaro, having lost 20 pounds during her menopausal transition. “I feel that this stage of life is totally doable. We can navigate menopause and still enjoy a full, healthy life,” Cockrell stated.
Research indicates that weight loss during menopause can alleviate some symptoms associated with the transition, such as hot flashes and night sweats. The average age for menopause, which marks the end of a woman’s menstrual cycles, is 52, according to the U.S. Office on Women’s Health.
Dr. Shepherd cautioned that women using weight loss medications during menopause must remain vigilant about their diets and exercise regimens to prevent muscle and bone mass loss, which is already a concern during this period. “As we age, our bones weaken, and we lose muscle mass, increasing the risk of osteoporosis and falls,” she noted. To counteract these effects, she recommends increasing protein intake and incorporating resistance training and weightlifting into exercise routines.
The surge in interest surrounding weight loss medications reflects a significant shift in how women are managing their health and wellness during menopause. As more women seek solutions to the challenges of this life stage, understanding the benefits and risks associated with these treatments remains essential.
Related Topics:
What Pills Speed up Metabolism
