Health and Well-Being Coaching Adjuvant to GLP-1 Induced Weight Loss

Abstract

Glucagon-like peptide agonists (GLP-1) are highly effective anti-obesity medications. However, sustained effectiveness is potentially plagued by lack of adherence to the drug and resumption of pre-weight loss behaviors. Side effects are primarily severe gastrointestinal distress but can occasionally be more serious. Health and well-being coaching (HWC) is an important obesity intervention that can be used alongside GLP-1 prescription. HWC is documented to improve medication adherence and promote healthy behavior change. A coach who understands the complexities of rapid weight loss, specifically with GLP-1, can help the patient persist with the treatment. Moreover, the coach can assist in navigating GLP-1 side effects including undesirable loss of skeletal muscle during the weight loss period. A patient-centric and collaborative relationship seem essential to the HWC process. Specific coaching techniques are suggested for working with patients losing weight. The logical, but yet to be tested, expectation is that HWC as an adjuvant intervention to GLP-1 prescription will improve medication adherence and encourage sustained weight loss and health benefits in patients with obesity.