How The Doctor Chooses: A Practical Approach The decision to choose these medications follow a simple path: Clarify goals: Is the priority blood-sugar control, weight loss, or both
For women with obesity and diabetes, weight loss and improved diabetes control can sometimes help normalize previously irregular menstrual periods and increase fertility, says Dr
Combining with DPP-4 inhibitors is generally not recommended, as both drug classes work on the incretin system Adding basal insulin for those with more significant hyperglycaemia, which can be used alongside GLP-1 medications (with careful monitoring for hypoglycaemia) Switching to insulin therapy entirely may be necessary for those with advanced beta cell failure For weight management , when GLP-1 medications don't produce adequate weight loss, alternatives include: Orlistat , a lipase inhibitor that reduces fat absorption, though weight loss is typically modest (2-3 kg on average) Naltrexone-bupropion (Mysimba), which works on appetite centres through different pathways
Please talk with your doctor about the risks and side effects before starting any GLP-1 medication
It also supports bone health (since bones stay stronger when you do weight-bearing activities)
Reitano said Ro has built up "both technical tools and operations" to help patients navigate supply issues