What to know about weight loss medications for older adults

Weight loss medications may help older adults lose and manage their weight. The drugs may work by decreasing your appetite or helping you feel fuller for longer. For best results, combine weight loss medication with a healthy diet and regular physical activity.

Weight loss for older adults can be challenging due to factors such as unexpected life circumstances or current health conditions. But certain medications may help when diet and exercise alone are ineffective.

Learn about common weight loss medications for older adults and what to consider when exploring these options.

For older adults, there are several options for weight loss medications, including glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists (Wegovy, Saxenda, more), stimulants (phentermine), and others.

When prescribing a drug for weight loss, your healthcare professional may consider your health history, other medication you take, and possible drug side effects. They can help determine which medication might suit you based on your weight loss goals and what you’ve tried before.

The following chart highlights some potential weight loss medications that may be options for older adults.

A 2024 research review showed that while much of the research evaluating the safety and efficacy of weight loss drugs focuses on younger adults, the use of weight loss drugs can still be an effective tool for older adults.

For example, one 2024 study involving 17,604 adults taking semaglutide (the active ingredient in Wegovy, Ozempic, and Rybelsus) continued to lose weight for 65 weeks and maintained the weight loss for up to 4 years. The average age of study participants was 61.6 years old.

At 104 weeks, 67.8% of study participants lost at least 5% of their body weight, and 44.2% lost at least 10% during treatment with semaglutide.

While the results of any weight loss drug vary from person to person, older adults may benefit from taking weight loss medications, especially when taken along with a balanced diet and regular physical activity.

To get started with weight loss medications as an older adult, schedule an appointment with your healthcare professional, such as a primary care professional. They can evaluate your overall health, discuss your weight loss goals, and determine whether medication is appropriate for you.

They may also recommend additional support, such as a dietitian or fitness professional, to tailor nutrition and fitness programs to your specific needs.

Older adults may benefit from weight loss medications to help lose and maintain weight and improve overall health. Weight loss medications work best when combined with a healthy diet and increased exercise. If you’re interested in taking a weight loss medication, talk with your doctor. They can help determine which one is right for you.