Apart from the cost and hassle, some people think that it’s a virtue to not use medicines. That taking them risks side effects. While that’s absolutely true, every medication should be taken only when the benefits outweight the downsides. They all have side effects but so does untreated disease.

Am impulse to not take medicine is emotion over considered healthcare. In saying that the benefits and side effects should be considered, as well as the expected timeline. Further, the medication should be reviewed for continuing need, appropriate dosage and better alternatives at regular intervals.

I’m currently taking a glp-1 for weight loss and it’s worked great with minimal side effects for me. I know from the research that if I stop taking it, I’m likely to put a lot of weight back on, so I’m pretty locked in. Given the alternative of being overweight and havig poorer sleep and health in general, that’s a risk I willingly took. I’m hopeful there is improved research and we find a way to wean off successfully for most people, but if we don’t, I’m still ok with my choice.