Although obesity medicines produce weight loss, which helps with many obesity-related diseases, they are not for everyone. A small proportion of people with obesity are not suitable for anti-obesity medicines. Another group, although appropriate, may discontinue these medicines due to the adverse effects.
Orlistat cannot be used in people with malabsorption syndromes, those conditions that lead to blockage of bile (cholestasis) or allergies to the drug. Some people who start Orlistat may discontinue it due to tummy issues like oil leakage in stools.
Liraglutide, Semaglutide and Tirzepatide are contraindicated in people with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2.
Around 5 to 10 % of people who are on Liraglutide, Semaglutide and Tirzepatide may experience nausea, vomiting, bloating, diarrhoea or constipation, leading to discontinuation of these drugs. This happens especially during the dose escalation stages of the drug.
Dr. Mathew John MD, DM