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Obesity is a long-term health challenge that many people face. In fact, the World Health Organization has declared obesity a global epidemic.

For some, healthy eating and regular exercise are enough to lose weight. But I often meet patients who do everything right and still have trouble making progress. In these cases, medication can sometimes offer the extra support they need.

Weight-loss medications are not right for everyone, but more people qualify than you might think. Most adults can be considered if their body mass index (BMI)—an estimate of body fat based on height and weight—is 30 or higher or 27 or higher with a health problem related to weight, such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure or sleep apnea.

Doctors may recommend lifestyle modifications such as trying healthy eating and exercise first, but if you have not lost at least 5% of your weight with these changes, medication may be an option.

There is no rule that says you have to wait a certain amount of time before starting medication. In fact, many experts say that making people wait too long can keep them from getting the help they need. Some medical groups support using medication along with lifestyle changes as a first-line treatment when needed.

Weight-loss medications are not a quick fix. They work best when combined with healthy eating, regular activity and changes in daily habits.

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