Vol. 1 No. 1 (2026): USE OF WEIGHT REDUCTION MEDICATIONS AND IMPACT ON OBESITY SURGERY

This research article evaluates the clinical impact of preoperative weight-reduction medications on outcomes in patients undergoing bariatric surgery. The study compares medication-exposed and non-exposed groups to assess differences in weight loss, surgical eligibility, and perioperative safety.

Findings demonstrate that patients receiving pharmacotherapy achieved significantly greater preoperative weight loss, higher total body weight reduction, and improved body mass index (BMI) outcomes compared to those without medication. A notable proportion of patients achieved sufficient weight loss to defer surgery, highlighting the potential of pharmacological therapy as both an alternative and adjunct to surgical intervention.

Despite improved weight loss outcomes, perioperative safety and complication rates remained comparable between groups, supporting the safe integration of pharmacotherapy into bariatric care pathways. The study emphasizes the growing role of GLP-1 receptor agonists and related therapies in modern obesity management.

Overall, the findings support a more personalized and multidisciplinary approach to obesity treatment, combining medical and surgical strategies to optimize patient outcomes and long-term health benefits.