GLP-1s vs. bariatric surgery: What to know, where to start 

[Text on screen: The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center
GLP-1s vs. bariatric surgery: What to know, where to start]

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[Text on screen: Patrick Sweigert, MD
General Surgery
Ohio State Wexner Medical Center]

Patrick Sweigert, MD: So when we talk about longterm results in GLP-1s and bariatric surgery, bariatric surgery is still the strongest and most durable tool we have. GLP-1 medications like tirzepatide and semaglutide can produce meaningful weight loss as well, but the best results really depend on patients staying on the medication long term, and stopping the medications commonly leads to regain of weight.

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So patients interested in bariatric surgery and also medications can totally try the medications first. That's a very reasonable plan. I think what's most important is that you have a clear roadmap. More and more, we're understanding obesity to be a chronic disease that will need lifelong therapies. And so, the key is to really set a timeline and define success and goals so that you don't lose momentum if the medication isn't getting you where you need to be.

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So patients interested in learning more about bariatric surgery should really start the conversation with their primary doctors and the providers who know them best, but they should also gather information from a comprehensive weight management team of experts that include people like obesity medicine specialists, surgeons, dieticians, and even behavioral health specialists that can perform a holistic evaluation to really determine what options are most appropriate for you.

When thinking of GLP-1 medications and bariatric surgery, we're not thinking of them as an either-or conversation. For patients who undergo bariatric surgery, we're definitely not thinking of this as a one-size-fits-all plan in utilizing GLP-1 medications before or after surgery. For most patients, the best care really just involves a thoughtful combination of utilizing GLP medications and surgery on top of a true foundation of lifestyle improvements like diet and exercise.

[Text on screen: The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center
For more information, visit: wexnermedical.osu.edu/weight-management]

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