7 Medical Considerations Before Starting Weight Loss Medications
Jun 11, 2026
GLP-1 receptor agonists have changed the face of weight loss. Now, more and more people are rightfully interested in reducing food noise and managing their appetite in ways that support health and weight loss.
These medications not only help with weight loss but also improve blood sugar control. However, like with any medical treatment, a careful evaluation is needed before starting.
At North Tex MedCare Clinic & Urgent Care, Dr. Frank Lee helps patients pursue weight loss through medication and sustainable lifestyle changes. We asked him about the key medical considerations providers evaluate when determining whether someone is a good candidate for treatment.
GLP-1 medications can be very helpful in managing some chronic conditions, such as diabetes and polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), but are not recommended in all cases.
Having a medical provider review your medical history and run the appropriate tests is crucial to ensuring the medications actually improve your overall wellbeing.
Because one of the ways GLP-1 medications reduce appetite is by delaying stomach emptying, the most common side effects are related to digestion.
Some people may experience nausea, stomach discomfort, bloating, constipation, or diarrhea. These side effects are often temporary and tend to resolve as your body adjusts. However, if you already have gastrointestinal issues, we may recommend a different approach to weight loss.
We may not recommend GLP-1 medications for individuals with a personal or family history of certain types of cancer, including medullary thyroid carcinoma and multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN2). These risks are very rare, but healthcare providers do screen for these conditions and may ask about your family medical history to ensure safety.
If you have a history of pancreatitis, caution may be required. Because these medications act on insulin secretion, they may influence pancreatic activity.
A history of pancreatitis does not necessarily disqualify you, but we may screen you more closely for any current inflammation or symptoms to ensure it is safe to proceed.
Because weight-loss medications affect the rate at which your stomach empties, they may interact with other medications, including diabetes medications, blood pressure medications, oral contraceptives, and vitamins and minerals. Your dosages may require adjustment, especially if you are already taking medications that lower blood sugar levels.
Despite reducing appetite and food intake, weight-loss medications are most effective when combined with nutritious food, physical activity, and adequate sleep. As you are in a caloric deficit, it becomes even more important to ensure adequate intake of vitamins and minerals through food.
A sustained caloric deficit can also act as a mild stressor, making recovery and sleep even more important to support optimal body function.
While weight loss medications can support weight loss when combined with a caloric deficit, results vary from person to person. Weight loss, even when supported by medication, still takes time.
The good news is that with the right plan, even if your pair of pants does not fit as soon as you would like, they will fit at some point, as long as you stay consistent with the plan.
For the right candidates, weight loss medications can be the boost they have been waiting for. They may help reduce food noise and cravings while increasing satiety, making it easier to follow a nutritional plan.
If you have been wanting to lose weight for a while but have had limited success, contact us to schedule an appointment at one of our offices located in Allen, Addison, Fort Worth, and San Antonio, Texas. During your consultation, Dr. Lee helps determine the best path to achieving your weight-loss goals.