GLP-1 receptor agonists like semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy) suppress appetite and slow gastric emptying
In practice, most patients deal only with mild and temporary symptoms
A systematic review comparing these medications found that retatrutide (12 mg) achieved 22% weight loss from baseline, compared to 18% for tirzepatide and 14% for semaglutide
Often called the stress hormone, cortisol served our ancestors well by mobilizing energy during dangerous situations
Together, these developments underscore the dynamic interplay between medical advances, social attitudes, and the lived experiences of individuals with obesity, highlighting the need for continued dialog around the ethical, cultural, and clinical implications of obesity treatment