WEIGHT-loss drugs have long been misunderstood as 'shortcuts' for people unwilling to exercise, but experts stress they are scientifically proven tools that can play a vital role in obesity treatment when combined with lifestyle changes.
"One big myth is that weight-loss drugs are for people who don’t like to exercise. That’s wrong. Obesity is a chronic disease and these medications regulate appetite, metabolism, and brain signals,” said Dr Tamilvani, Consultant Internal Medicine at Bukit Tinggi Medical Centre.
According to her, modern weight-loss medications have transformed treatment outcomes. Unlike older drugs that were associated with severe side effects, these newer options have undergone extensive clinical and cardiovascular trials and are approved by the US FDA for long-term use.
"With medication, patients can achieve between 10 to 25 per cent weight loss when it’s combined with diet and exercise. They are not magic pills, but they enhance the effect of lifestyle changes,” she said.
She added that medication can also help overcome biological resistance and behavioural burnout, which often derail patients' efforts.
"People may start strong on a diet and exercise plan but lose motivation along the way. Early medication intervention can interrupt this cycle and keep patients on track,” she said.
Dr Tamilvani stressed that medication is always prescribed with close monitoring to ensure safety.
“For every patient, we review their baseline medications and monitor them every one to three months during the active weight-loss phase,” she said.
This includes checking blood pressure, glucose levels, nutrient balance, cardiovascular risk and even mental health.
Potential side effects such as hypoglycaemia, dehydration or electrolyte imbalances are managed through regular testing and adjustments. Patients also undergo pre-exercise screening to rule out hidden health issues like heart disease, joint problems or metabolic disorders.
While acknowledging that weight-loss medication can be costly, Dr Tamilvani argued that the investment often pays off.
“Weight loss reduces long-term healthcare costs by lowering risks of heart disease and diabetes. In the long run, you actually gain, even though the medication may feel expensive at first,” she said.
She concluded that medication should be seen as part of a bigger picture, not a standalone solution.
"These drugs are not short-term fixes. The weight loss can be sustained if your lifestyle habits are strong. Medication works best when combined with proper diet, exercise and behavioural changes,” she said.