Doc's Sema Shaming?!

[Med_Clean]

Had my yearly checkup last week. When I told my doc I'm taking semaglutide, she went on and on, saying she's trying to lose her pregnancy weight "the right way" with diet and exercise and that these meds are new and might have unknown side effects. She also implied my weight loss doctor is only after my money and will give me whatever I want.

I reminded her that just minutes earlier, her nurse weighed me, said I was overweight, and suggested their weight management program. I told her that every time I come in, I'm reminded about my weight, which kills my confidence. So, what am I supposed to do?

She seemed surprised by my response, but seriously? It ruined my day.

 

[Georgie2007]

That sounds super unprofessional!

 

[TransformMe]

It's frustrating how many doctors seem under-informed about obesity treatment, especially considering how prevalent overweight and obesity are in this country.

 

[evidence-based]

Your doctor is misinformed. GLP-1 meds aren't new. We've had them for over a decade. Countless clinical trials and patient experiences exist. To say we don't understand them is inaccurate. Your doctor needs to do some research.

Even if there were previously unknown side effects (beyond the expected), the risks of remaining obese are much greater than those of using the medication.

It's good that you stood up for yourself. Stay the course!

 

[Core_Cookie92]

You have the right to switch doctors. I actually fired mine once, right in front of her staff. They weren't sad to see her go. They recommended someone else I liked much better.

 

[DropPath282]

I eat well and exercise too. But my weight didn't budge until I started these peptides. She needs to be quiet. Plus, she might not realize the hormonal challenges some of us post-menopausal women face.

 

[Core_Loss]

She'll probably be on it herself within the year.

Doctors often have a surprising amount of bias against obesity and are generally undereducated on weight management.

 

[SlimDown_Sloane]

Comparing your situation to her baby weight is...medically ridiculous and makes me question her skills.

 

[Med_Clean]

I'm sorry that happened to you, SlimDown_Sloane! I'd switch doctors ASAP for someone with a better bedside manner. My weight loss doc suggested Wegovy but also mentioned that long-term effects aren't fully known. No shaming needed! I'm glad you spoke up!

 

[Georgie2007]

If regular doctors weren't like this, we wouldn't have to look for "money-hungry" weight loss specialists, hormone doctors, naturopaths, etc. A lot of conventional doctors push whatever drug has the biggest kickback, then shame you for trying natural or newer stuff. And when something doesn't work, they say "diet and exercise." Like, if that worked, I wouldn't be here!!

 

[TransformMe]

Good for you for standing up for yourself. What did she say after you clapped back? I'd find a doctor you trust and who respects you, so you can work together for a healthier you. Check out RateMD for reviews and find a doctor with good ratings for knowledge and bedside manner.

 

[evidence-based]

Yes! It's time to stop the judgment. Fat shaming is real and can damage self-esteem. If it were as easy as diet and exercise, 40%+ of Americans wouldn't be overweight.

 

[Core_Cookie92]

My PCP sent me to a weight management doctor who prescribed Wegovy for my metabolic disorder and obesity with other risk factors. If your doctor's office keeps suggesting their weight management program, what does it even involve? What do they offer for those of us who've tried countless diets and exercise plans without success, some even weight loss surgery? We're sick because we can't lose weight, stabilize blood sugar, or stop obsessing over food.

This is a legitimate medical issue treated by qualified doctors with proven medicine.

Thank you for speaking up!

 

[DropPath282]

Good job. If a doctor criticizes your weight, and there's an approved medication that could help, they should give you all available options.

 

[SlimDown_Sloane]

I'm just starting out on this journey. Anyone have recommendations for GLP-1 meds for women over 60? My mom wants to start semaglutide but she's had stomach issues like acid reflux, so I want to find the one with the least side effects.

 

[Georgie2007]

Anyone have recommendations for GLP-1 meds for women over 60?

Mounjaro/Zepbound might have fewer side effects, but those are tirzepatide, not semaglutide. But best to talk to her doctor.

 

[DropPath282]

I'm 68 and on Wegovy with zero side effects so far.

 

[evidence-based]

I'm just starting out on this journey. Anyone have recommendations for GLP-1 meds for women over 60? My mom wants to start semaglutide but she's had stomach issues like acid reflux, so I want to find the one with the least side effects.

It's smart to consider her stomach history, especially with acid reflux, which can sometimes worsen with GLP-1s if the dose isn't managed correctly. The drugs themselves (semaglutide, tirzepatide, etc.) work the same way regardless of age, but older adults may need slower dose increases and closer monitoring. Make sure her doctor knows her medical history and is willing to start with a low dose and go slow.

 

[Core_Loss]

I'm 67 and reached my goal weight by dropping 50 lbs on 7mg Rybelsus pills. It actually fixed my acid reflux and IBS! I used to take antacids and Imodium constantly. Now I don't need any of that! I went from multiple bowel movements a day to just one. I make sure to get enough fiber and protein. I only had nausea for the first couple of months when I ate fried food or overate. I've stayed on Rybelsus for maintenance.

 

[Med_Clean]

Thanks everyone, your replies have really helped me feel better about my decision and standing up for myself!