WeightWatchers is entering into new territory with a $132 million deal that will add prescription medications to its arsenal to help people lose weight.
The company announced Monday that it was buying digital health company Sequence, which offers telehealth visits with doctors who can prescribe weight loss drugs like Ozempic, which has gained a reputation for helping people shed pounds fast.
Ozempic is an FDA-approved prescription for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, but is more commonly being used for its weight-loss benefits. The injectable drug curbs hunger by helping the body release insulin and slow the emptying of the stomach, which keeps people feeling full for a longer time.
KYW Medical Editor Dr. Brian McDonough said prescriptions for Ozempic are now being written to help people lose weight, which is not the intended FDA purpose.
"Those who are trying to help the obesity problem in the country have said, 'Wait a minute. Even though this medication is not approved for weight loss, it's a great side-effect of the medicine," he said. "Doctors are starting to say 'Hmm, maybe if I use this medication off-label, I get the weight loss and I can help with the blood sugar.'"
WeightWatchers didn't mention Ozempic in its announcement, but it did say that medical experts "recommend pairing these medications with a science-backed lifestyle modification program for long-term weight management and overall health."
"As science advances rapidly, we know there is a significant opportunity to improve outcomes for those using medications. Clinical interventions require better education, access, care management, community and the integration of a complementary lifestyle program for best results. It is our responsibility, as the trusted leader in weight management, to support those interested in exploring if medications are right for them," CEO Sima Sistani said in a statement.
Some doctors, like SugarMD founder Dr. Ahmet Ergin, warn that prescribing weight loss drugs might not be the best approach for helping people reach their goal -- especially if they're only looking to drop a few pounds.
"'Eat what you like and lose weight' is not going to happen for everybody," Ergin told NewsNation. "When you're on Ozempic... you naturally do not want to eat. You don't actually even need WeightWatchers, because you basically almost hate the food. When you hate the food, there's no reason to count anything."
WeightWatchers Chief Scientific Officer Dr. Gary Foster said each treatment plan would be tailored for the individual.
"We know weight management isn't one-size-fits-all and clinical interventions are not medically or otherwise appropriate for everyone, which is why we remain committed to all pathways," he said in a statement.
According to the Centers for Disease Control, 41.9% of adults age 20 and over are considered obese. The CDC adds that obesity is associated with the leading causes of death, including deaths from diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and some types of cancer.
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