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Date of Award

Spring 2025

Degree Name

Master of Medical Science (Physician Assistant)

Department

Physician Assistant; College of Health Sciences

First Advisor

Lisa Akselrad, MSPAS, PA-C

Abstract

Obesity is a chronic, multifactorial disease that currently affects over 40% of adults in the U.S. and continues to rise globally. It significantly increases the risk for serious health conditions such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, certain cancers, and it can drastically reduce overall quality of life. Despite significant advances in the understanding of obesity as a chronic disease, it has proven difficult to manage effectively. While lifestyle modifications such as diet and exercise are still considered the cornerstone of managing obesity, it has fallen short in sustaining weight loss. In response, weight loss medications have emerged as a valuable adjunct tool to augment lasting weight reduction. Due to the growing prevalence of obesity placing additional demands on healthcare systems and the evolving interest in anti-obesity medications, this topic holds significant relevance for healthcare providers. In this presentation, I will identify appropriate candidates for pharmacological weight loss treatment, review these FDA approved anti-obesity meds and discuss overall management of these medications, addressing clinical considerations.

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Managing weight loss medications in obese adults

Obesity is a chronic, multifactorial disease that currently affects over 40% of adults in the U.S. and continues to rise globally. It significantly increases the risk for serious health conditions such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, certain cancers, and it can drastically reduce overall quality of life. Despite significant advances in the understanding of obesity as a chronic disease, it has proven difficult to manage effectively. While lifestyle modifications such as diet and exercise are still considered the cornerstone of managing obesity, it has fallen short in sustaining weight loss. In response, weight loss medications have emerged as a valuable adjunct tool to augment lasting weight reduction. Due to the growing prevalence of obesity placing additional demands on healthcare systems and the evolving interest in anti-obesity medications, this topic holds significant relevance for healthcare providers. In this presentation, I will identify appropriate candidates for pharmacological weight loss treatment, review these FDA approved anti-obesity meds and discuss overall management of these medications, addressing clinical considerations.