Weight Loss Drugs 101 for Midlife Menopausal Women
WEIGHT LOSS DRUGS ARE HAVING A MOMENT
There’s a lot of buzz around weight-loss drugs. Oprah Winfrey, Kelly Clarkson, Sharon Osbourne, Whoopi Goldberg, and Chelsea Handler have all admitted to using weight-loss medication. And it’s not just the ladies. Josh Gad, Jim Gaffigan, Elon Musk, Dr. Phil McGraw, and James Corden have also gone on record about their use of medication to manage weight struggles.
With the rise in popularity, many wonder: Are weight-loss drugs safe for the general public? The short answer is yes, they are considered safe. But the decision to take weight-loss medication is a personal one.
WHY MIDLIFE WEIGHT GAIN ISN’T JUST ABOUT WILLPOWER
Weight gain is a common symptom of menopause. Hormonal shifts, such as declining estrogen levels, combined with age-related metabolic changes, like reduced muscle mass, often lead to weight gain, especially around the abdomen. According to a 2016 study titled Association of Mid-Life Changes in Body Size, Body Composition and Obesity Status with the Menopausal Transition, research associated mid-life transition with weight gain and increased central body fat distribution.
“Weight gain is a symptom of menopause experienced by 60% to 70% of midlife women. On average, women gain about 1.5 pounds per year during the midlife period (age 50 to 60), regardless of initial body size or race/ethnicity.”
If you’re feeling frustrated by a slowing metabolism despite consistent nutrition and fitness efforts, weight-loss drugs may be worth considering.
“Weight-loss management is the most requested service at my menopause-focused clinic. I have overseen a wide range of cases to help women choose the best path forward for their health and confidence.”
To determine if weight-loss medication is right for you, it’s important to understand the approved options available and carefully weigh their benefits and risks.
THE HORMONE BEHIND THE HYPE
When you eat, your digestive system releases a hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1). This hormone signals to your brain that you’re full. It was first targeted for type 2 diabetes treatment because it also helps the body produce more insulin when blood sugar is high and slows how quickly food leaves the stomach, both of which help regulate blood sugar.
Medications that mimic or support GLP-1 function are now used to treat type 2 diabetes and have shown the unexpected benefit of significant weight loss. Insurance plans are typically more likely to cover diabetes medications due to existing health conditions, while weight-loss prescriptions may have stricter eligibility requirements.
SEMAGLUTIDE VS. TIRZEPATIDE
Two of the most talked-about medications in this category are semaglutide and tirzepatide.
Semaglutide works by mimicking GLP-1. Though the name may not sound familiar, semaglutide is the active ingredient in well-known brands like Ozempic and Wegovy. But it’s not as easy as choosing brand names. Ozempic and Wegovy both contain the GLP-1 agonist (a binding hormone receptor) semaglutide, but they’re approved for different uses. Ozempic is approved primarily for managing type 2 diabetes, while Wegovy is approved for long-term weight loss. If your main goal is weight loss, studies show Wegovy can help, regardless of whether you have diabetes.
Tirzepatide, on the other hand, mimics both GLP-1 and another hormone called gastric inhibitory peptide (GIP), which helps regulate energy use and fat storage. Tirzepatide is a newer, dual-action drug available under the brand names Zepbound and Mounjaro. Like semaglutide products, they serve different purposes: Zepbound is FDA-approved for weight loss, while Mounjaro is approved for managing type 2 diabetes.
Singer-songwriter Meghan Trainor has been vocal about her use of Mounjaro and the role it played in her post-pregnancy health journey. She shared on social media:
“No, I don’t look like I did 10 years ago. I’ve been on a journey to be the healthiest, strongest version of myself for my kids and for me. I’ve worked with a dietitian, made huge lifestyle changes, started exercising with a trainer, and yes, I used science and support (shoutout to Mounjaro!) to help me after my second pregnancy. And I’m so glad I did because I feel great. Here’s to celebrating talent, growth, and the power of putting yourself first. Let’s keep shifting the convo to what REALLY matters.”
SMART, SAFE, AND SUPERVISED: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Semaglutide and tirzepatide are not interchangeable, which is why it's important to understand their differences. At Meno-Start, Dr. Cothran prescribes these medications based on comprehensive lab work, physical evaluations, and health history.
“There’s a lot of misinformation out there. As a trained OB-GYN and menopause-certified doctor, I’ve dedicated my life and clinic to helping women understand what’s approved for use and how it aligns with their overall health, medical history, and long-term weight-loss goals.”
While both medications are effective for weight loss, they can cause side effects. Common ones may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, stomach pain, and bloating. Some people may also experience headaches, fatigue, dizziness, changes in taste, or injection site reactions like redness, itching, or pain. Rare but serious side effects may include gallbladder or kidney issues and changes in vision.
A 360° APPROACH TO WELLNESS
Another concern of weight loss medication is the potential for muscle loss. Since there’s no “magic number” for how much weight you should lose, it’s important to support your treatment with a structured fitness and nutrition plan, just like Meghan Trainor did.
Fortunately, Meno-Start offers a unique, integrated program for clients in Tysons, Vienna, Fairfax, Arlington, McLean, and Falls Church. Its corporate office doubles as both a clinic and a fitness studio. The facility includes gym equipment such as a programmable treadmill, elliptical with boxing training, and a universal cable machine. It also features an InBody scanner to track key metrics like muscle mass, body fat percentage, and total body water.
“We take a 360-degree approach at Meno-Start to help women look and feel their best. With our Unlimited Comprehensive Membership, Dr. Cothran provides prescription support while I create a personalized fitness and nutrition plan.”
SCIENCE, SUPPORT, AND A PLAN MADE FOR YOU
Weight-loss medications like semaglutide and tirzepatide have opened new doors for women navigating menopause-related weight gain. While these FDA-approved treatments are safe and effective when used under medical supervision, they’re not a one-size-fits-all solution.
To understanding how these drugs work, the differences between brands, and the potential side effects, consulting an experienced medical professional is essential. At Meno-Start, Dr. Cothran and Coach Dulany Washington take a personalized, whole-body approach, combining medical expertise, fitness planning, and nutrition support, to help you reach your health goals with confidence.
Schedule a FREE 15 minute consultation with Dr. Cothran.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Renier is a communications consultant from Fairfax, Virginia. He is passionate about promoting the health and wellness space.