Weight gain remains a significant health issue as it is linked to numerous chronic conditions like type 2 diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, and certain cancers, as well as physical problems such as sleep apnea and osteoarthritis. Excess weight can also negatively impact mental health, leading to conditions like depression and anxiety. Lifestyle habits, such as where you eat, live, work, play, and worship, play a key role in shaping your body weight and health. Not getting enough sleep is also linked to weight gain. Not getting enough sleep may make you feel hungrier, consume more calories, and be more likely to choose unhealthy foods and beverages instead of healthier options.

There are various medications available now that can reduce appetite and make you feel full by acting on the brain and slowing stomach emptying. Weight-loss medications, such as those approved by the FDA, like semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Zep- bound), top the list for their ability to suppress appetite or alter fat absorption. Prescription medications are typically used for individuals with obesity or who are overweight and have other weight-related conditions. Some medi- cines, like phentermine-topiramate (Qsymia) and naltrexone-bupropion (Contrave), com- bine two drugs that target appetite control, cravings, and brain function.

What are GLP-1 agonists?
GLP-1 agonists are a class of medications that mainly help manage blood sugar (glucose) levels in people with type 2 diabetes and help treat obesity. FDA-approved GLP-1 medication called Zepbound (tirzepatide) can improve moderate to severe sleep apnea, particularly in individuals with obesity, primarily by causing weight loss that reduces airway obstruction. GLP-1 agonists are most often injectable medications, meaning you inject liquid medica- tion with a needle and syringe. GLP-1 agonists are not safe to take during pregnancy. Animal studies show that these medications cause developmental abnormalities in the fetus. If you are able to become pregnant, you should use effective and reliable birth control while taking a GLP-1 agonist. If you become pregnant while taking the medication, see your healthcare provider immediately.