Ozempic effect: GLP-1 drugs surge, weight-loss surgeries crater, study finds

A recent Washington Times article examines a growing trend in obesity treatment: as GLP-1 medications such as semaglutide and tirzepatide become more widely used, the number of metabolic and bariatric surgeries performed on eligible patients has begun to decline. Researchers report that prescriptions for these weight-loss drugs have surged in recent years, while surgery rates have dropped noticeably since 2023, signaling a shift in how patients and physicians are approaching obesity care.

The piece also highlights the perspective of Dr. Evan Nadler, a leading pediatric obesity specialist, who emphasizes that obesity should be treated as a serious medical condition requiring a full spectrum of options. His work continues to focus on improving access to evidence-based treatments and helping families understand when medications, lifestyle changes, or surgical approaches may be appropriate in managing long-term metabolic health.

Read the full article here.