Liver specialist Dr SK Sarin explains how popular weight loss medicines are gaining popularity to reduce obesity rapidly. He cautioned against their misuse and said people should instead focus on healthy, sustainable lifestyle choices.

Dr. Sarin explained that Ozempic, the weight loss compound semaglutide, and similar drugs are designed to reduce body fat by increasing metabolic processes such as lipolysis.

These drugs force the thyroid to work harder, mimicking the effects of physical activity, he said.

However, due to the exorbitant prices of these weight loss drugs, Dr. Sarin points out that these are best suited for those who are wealthy and are not a viable solution for the average person.

“The best approach for most people is still to exercise, burn calories and lead an active lifestyle,” said Dr. Sarin, Director, Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences at the Agenda Aaj Tak event.

He compared the liver to a “chartered accountant” who balances the body’s intake and expenditure. Excessive calorie intake leads to fat accumulation, which can result in fatty liver disease, blockage of arteries and complications in other organs like lungs and kidneys.

Dr. Sarin also stressed the importance of diet, saying, “Make your diet 60% raw and avoid foods that cause inflammation.”

Dr Naresh Trehan, Chairman and Managing Director of Medanta Hospital, expressed these concerns during the same session. He termed weight loss drugs as “dangerous” if used incorrectly.

While they can help individuals with uncontrolled diabetes and obesity under strict clinical supervision, they come with significant side effects including gastrointestinal issues, nausea, vomiting, nervousness, and disturbed metabolic status.

“These medications are not a magic solution,” cautions Dr. Trehan. “Once you stop taking them, weight gain often begins to return rapidly.”

He stressed that such medicines should be given only scientifically and under medical supervision, as their misuse can lead to serious complications.

Both doctors agreed that lifestyle changes, including regular exercise and a balanced diet, are the most effective and sustainable way to control weight and prevent associated health risks.