Behavioral Medicine in the Time of GLP-1 Treatments

GLP-1 agonist medications are noted for their dramatic efficacy in causing weight loss.

• GLP-1 agonists may improve health outcomes independently of weight loss.
• The use of these medications could alleviate the challenges of behavioral weight maintenance.
• There are concerns that GLP-1 medications may contribute to the medicalization of weight and increased stigma.
• From a social identity perspective, these medications might be viewed as a means to stigmatize those identifying as higher weight.
• A patient-centered, weight-inclusive approach in clinical care may better align treatment with individual health contexts.
• Research in behavioral medicine should focus on health markers and behaviors rather than solely on weight loss.

Simplified