Robert Whitfield MD warns that weight-loss drugs like Ozempic can worsen body image issues in people who already struggle with how they see themselves, especially when rapid weight loss leaves loose skin. The conversation also covers affordability, what happens when you stop taking the drug, and why behavioral changes matter for keeping weight off.
So if you do that to somebody who's seen the wrong image of themselves, what do you think you just made? So about a year ago, I told my team, I'm like, the biggest problem with these drugs is they work. So now you're going to see this filter down to everybody else who wants this little bit of weight loss, these changes, because you have people who see themselves very differently when they look in the mirror. Some people see themselves and they're. They're like, happy, they're comfortable, or maybe they want to work out more. Maybe there's some problem area. But then there's the person who sees a very different image, one that's very dysmorphic. When they're not happy with one that makes them upset, causes them anxiety, or just being uncomfortable. And those folks are not served well by taking that medication to help them achieve something that is not achievable. If you do that to somebody who's seeing the wrong image of themselves, what do you think? You just made an even worse problem. So now it's somebody who's lost weight too quickly. Now their skin is loose. So now they even have a worse potential body image issue. So it's a very complex thing.
I mean, can everyone afford the drug? That's another big thing. And what happens when you stop? Do they have, you know, things in place to help them keep the weight off? That's another big thing. Concern that a lot of patients and clients have, like, I can't afford this. I can't keep going with this drug. I need to learn how to eat better so I can keep this weight off. That's. That's a valid point, I think, you know.
