The GLP-1 Dilemma: Exploring the Intersection of Weight Loss Success and Eating Disorder Risks

The central and peripheral peptide modulation of appetite is increasingly well-known. The intersection of this science with a public that is highly desirous of weight loss has created extreme demand for an effective class of medications known as glucagon-like peptide (GLP-1) receptor agonists originally developed to assist in diabetes control. Not unexpectedly, patients with eating disorders have a particular affinity for these medications. Many will do anything to obtain them whether by prescription from a provider or more anonymously on the internet. Yet despite early studies that have indic...Read moreated that there may be physiologic risks to the individual irrespective of weight changes, the risk versus benefit is not entirely clear. The low body weight individual with an eating disorder is likely most at risk however side effects can impact anyone. More recent studies have preliminarily shown some potential benefit for individuals with binge eating disorder and possibly bulimia nervosa. Further studies are needed however the public and particularly those with eating disorders, appear bent on trialing these medications on their own and often are already taking them at the time of admission to treatment. This presentation will review the current status of these medications including GLP-1 physiology, the medical impact both positive and negative, and a review of current medications available as well as their unique characteristics and FDA approval. The current literature on the physical and emotional impact with potential harm for eating disorder patients will be reviewed. The current news media coverage, marketing campaigns and their impact on patients with eating disorders will be discussed. In addition, this presentation will address any potential benefit from these medications in subgroups of patients with eating disorders. The goal of this presentation is to educate providers about these medications and their impact on our eating disorder patients and avoid the hyperbole of the contemporary media as the use of these medications continues to grow exponentially. Less...

Learning Objectives

• Review the current status of GLP-1 medications available
• Learn more about GLP-1 medications unique characteristics and FDA approval
• Review the current literature on the physical & emotional impact with potential harm for eating disorder patients
• Learn the impact of news media coverage, marketing campaigns & their impact on patients with eating disorders
• Address any potential benefits from GLP-1 medications in subgroups of patients with eating disorders
• Educate providers about GLP-1 medications and impact on eating disorder patients

Target Audience

Learning Levels

• Intermediate

Wednesday, January 15, 2025

12:00 PM EST - 01:00 PM EST