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Medicare should wait on approving coverage for new obesity drugs
My dad, Randy, a 72-year-old retired sales manager, struggles with weight gain and has high blood pressure and cholesterol. His cardiologist suggested losing 15 pounds to potentially stop taking blood pressure medication. Randy considered Wegovy, a weight loss drug, but was skeptical due to its invasive nature and potential interactions with his medications.
Wegovy and Zepbound show significant weight loss results but are not covered by Medicare and are expensive. Their effectiveness and safety in older adults are uncertain since FDA studies included few participants over 64. Concerns about muscle mass loss and different treatment goals for older adults make it essential to ensure these drugs are safe and beneficial.
More research is needed to confirm the safety and efficacy of these medications for older adults. Until then, lifestyle changes like reducing late-night snacking might be a safer approach.
Source: Alissa S. Chen