GLP-1 receptor agonists currently have a strong social media presence, often accompanied by unrealistic promises of weight loss
In six to twelve months, generic Saxenda will likely be another affordable weight-loss medication
These metabolic improvements may contribute more to weight management than modest GLP-1 increases
A recent 2025 study showed that participants who consumed 1 gram of berberine daily for 6 months had no meaningful change in adiposity (AKA the accumulation of body fat) 19
According to NICE guidance (CG189), orlistat may be prescribed when: BMI is 30 kg/m , or 28 kg/m with an obesity-related condition (e.g., type 2 diabetes, hypertension) The individual has made a genuine attempt at lifestyle modification It is prescribed as part of an overall weight management plan Orlistat should be stopped after 12 weeks if the person has not lost at least 5% of their initial body weight at the full therapeutic dose this is a standard stop-rule to avoid continued treatment without meaningful benefit
Effects of GLP1 Analogues and Agonists on the Gut Microbiota: A Systematic Review KaunaCzapliska, J., & Gtarek, P