The information on this website is not intended for diagnosis or treatment. Please consult your physician for health concerns.

+90 850 321 50 00

Obesity — Endocrine Treatment Approaches

Pharmacological and metabolic management of obesity.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Internal Medicine department. Book Appointment →

What is Obesity — Endocrine Treatment Approaches?

Obesity is a chronic, progressive and relapsing disease defined by a body mass index (BMI) ≥30 kg/m². The prevalence of obesity in adults in Turkey is over 30%. Obesity is the most important risk factor for type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, sleep apnea, NAFLD and certain cancers.

Semaglutide 2.4 mg (GLP-1 RA) and tirzepatide (GIP/GLP-1 dual agonist) are new-generation agents that achieve 15-20% weight loss in obesity treatment. These drugs have shown not only weight loss but also reduction of cardiovascular risk.

Bariatric surgery (gastric sleeve, Roux-en-Y gastric bypass) is indicated in patients with BMI ≥40 or BMI ≥35 + comorbidity and provides the most sustainable weight loss. Postoperative nutritional deficiencies and dumping syndrome require follow-up.

Symptoms

Excess weight and fat accumulation
Shortness of breath and exercise intolerance
Joint pain
Sleep apnea (snoring, daytime sleepiness)
Psychosocial impact
Symptoms related to comorbidities (diabetes, hypertension, etc.)

Risk Factors

Genetic predisposition
Sedentary lifestyle
Consumption of high-calorie, processed foods
Psychiatric disorders (depression, binge eating)
Endocrine causes (hypothyroidism, Cushing's — rare)
Some drugs (corticosteroids, antipsychotics, insulin)

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • If BMI ≥30 or BMI ≥25 + comorbidity
  • If sufficient weight loss cannot be achieved by lifestyle changes
  • If obesity-related comorbidities develop
  • If bariatric surgery evaluation is being considered

Treatment Methods

01
Lifestyle intervention (diet + exercise — foundation of every treatment)
02
Semaglutide 2.4 mg/week SC (GLP-1 RA — approved for chronic weight management)
03
Tirzepatide (GIP/GLP-1 dual agonist — approved for obesity treatment)
04
Orlistat (lipase inhibitor — modest effect)
05
Bariatric surgery (BMI ≥40 or ≥35 + comorbidity)
06
Post-surgery: Vitamin/mineral replacement and nutritional follow-up

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Endokrinoloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Endokrinoloji Department

Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

Book AppointmentContact Us

Related Health Topics

Other articles from the same department you may want to explore.

Thyroid Nodule Evaluation

Endokrinoloji

Thyroid nodules are very common and the vast majority are benign; however, fine-needle aspiration biopsy may be required based on ultrasound features for malignancy risk assessment.

Management of Graves' Disease

Endokrinoloji

Graves' disease is the most common cause of autoimmune hyperthyroidism, developing with excessive stimulation of the thyroid gland by thyroid-stimulating antibody (TRAb).

Management of Hashimoto's Thyroiditis

Endokrinoloji

Hashimoto's thyroiditis is the most common cause of hypothyroidism, due to autoimmune destruction of the thyroid gland with anti-TPO and anti-thyroglobulin antibodies.

Primary Adrenal Insufficiency (Addison's Disease)

Endokrinoloji

Addison's disease is a potentially life-threatening endocrine disorder presenting with cortisol and aldosterone deficiency due to autoimmune destruction of the adrenal glands.

Cushing Syndrome Diagnostic Workup

Endokrinoloji

Cushing syndrome is an endocrine disorder presenting with central obesity, striae, hypertension, and metabolic disturbances due to chronic glucocorticoid excess; its diagnosis is challenging.

Pheochromocytoma and Paraganglioma

Endokrinoloji

Pheochromocytomas and paragangliomas are rare tumors that secrete excess catecholamines, causing paroxysmal hypertension, headache, sweating, and palpitations.

Primary Hyperaldosteronism (Conn Syndrome)

Endokrinoloji

Primary hyperaldosteronism is a treatable cause of resistant hypertension and hypokalemia caused by excessive aldosterone secretion from the adrenal gland.

Comprehensive Evaluation of Hypopituitarism

Endokrinoloji

Hypopituitarism is a deficiency of pituitary hormone production that leads to multiple endocrine organ failures and requires lifelong hormone replacement.

Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.