Guidance for people taking obesity medication, launched by British Dietetic Association

The British Dietetic Association (BDA) has launched a new evidence-based resource to help people taking obesity medication understand how the drugs work, manage side effects and maintain their health during treatment.

The free resource has been developed for both the public and healthcare professionals in response to the growing use of obesity medication outside of NHS services, which according to the BDA leaves many without adequate support on nutrition and the behavioural changes required to support long-term weight loss.

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The aim of the guide is to provide practical information on what to eat and drink and how to stay well during treatment, and what patients should monitor alongside healthcare professionals.

The resource, developed by the BDA's obesity specialist group and co-designed with people living with obesity, also explains how the medications work and brings together the latest evidence on their use.

'Our guide translates complex and rapidly evolving evidence into clear, practical advice,' explained registered dietitian Dr Laura Stewart, who led the project on behalf of the BDA’s obesity specialist group.

'Our aim is to ensure that everyone who is prescribed medications for obesity can take them safely with the nutritional and lifestyle support needed to achieve the best possible outcomes,' she added.

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According to the BDA, around 95% of people taking weight-loss medication are not receiving the treatment through the NHS.

Dr Adrian Brown, registered dietitian and chair of the BDA's obesity specialist group, said: 'There has been a significant gap in accessible, evidence-based information for people taking medications for obesity.

'With obesity being a relapsing and remitting condition, individuals taking these medications require more than a prescription to ensure they make the behavioural changes required for lasting weight loss success.'

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The BDA said the resource will shortly be available in Welsh, Polish, Urdu, Spanish and Arabic, as well as formats designed for deaf and blind users.

Additional guidance is also being developed for healthcare professionals working in oncology, renal and severe mental health settings.