Obesity Treatment

How is Obesity Diagnosed?

Patients with suspected obesity issues should visit an endocrinologist, a bariatric physician, or a general practitioner. Obesity is diagnosed based on Body Mass Index (BMI) and waist circumference. Other diagnostic tests for obesity may include blood glucose tests, blood lipid profiles, blood tests for thyroid function, and liver function tests.

Obesity diagnosis also includes assessment of complications of obesity, such as hypertension, dyslipidaemia, fatty liver disease, obstructive sleep apnea, cardiovascular disease, etc., and secondary causes of obesity where it is clinically indicated.

How is Obesity Treated Based on Severity?

Treatment approaches for obesity are based on its severity. These are listed below:

Stages of Obesity and Their Treatment

There are different grades of obesity that can be measured using BMI, with the intensity of treatment increasing with each stage. Check out the various stages of obesity and its treatment below:

Topical Treatment for Obesity

The use of topical therapy is of little importance in treating obesity and thus is not used for weight loss purposes. However, there are certain topical drugs that can be used for managing skin conditions related to obesity. These include:

Other Treatments for Obesity

Other treatment options for obesity include:

Oral Medications for Obesity Treatment

Some oral medications that can be prescribed for obesity treatment include:

• Orlistat

• Liraglutide

• Semaglutide

• Tirzepatide (subject to regulatory approval and availability)

• Naltrexone-bupropion

• Phentermine-topiramate (approved in some countries)

• Setmelanotide (rare genetic obesity only)

Note: These drugs must be taken in combination with diet and physical activity and after consultation with a doctor. Prescription of these medicines is based on BMI, obesity-related conditions, and drug availability.

Ayurvedic and Alternative Treatment for Obesity

Alternative therapies used for obesity management can include the following:

• Udvartana can be used as an adjunct Ayurvedic therapy.

• Virechana therapy can also be considered in specific Ayurvedic therapies.

• Yoga can assist in increasing exercise levels.

• Mindfulness/meditation can assist in handling stress eating.

Note: These alternative treatments can only serve as a complementary therapy and should not replace obesity management.

Home Care for Managing Obesity

Patients undertaking treatment for obesity should adopt the following practices in their homes:

• Follow the recommended diet plan.

• Practise physical activity consistently.

• Monitor body weight regularly.

• Avoid sugary beverages and processed foods.

• Observe proper eating times.

• Practise less sedentary activities.

• Keep up with regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider.

Latest Treatment for Obesity

According to recent research, GLP-1 receptor agonists, like semaglutide and tirzepatide, provide considerable advantages for achieving sustainable weight loss if used alongside diet and physical exercise. GLP-1 receptor agonists are widely available in India. This class of drugs works by lowering the appetite and delaying stomach emptying.

In 2025, the World Health Organization (WHO) published its first guidelines that recommend using GLP-1 agents in eligible adults with obesity within the framework of obesity treatment.

How Long Does Obesity Treatment Take?

The treatment duration for obesity depends on the treatment method. The table below highlights the duration for each obesity treatment method:

Obesity Treatment Side Effects

Obesity treatment can result in some side effects, depending on the type of treatment. Common side effects of obesity treatment are:

• Nausea

• Vomiting

• Diarrhoea

• Constipation

• Stomach pain

• Headache

• Fatigue

• Nutritional deficiency following bariatric surgery

• Gallstones after rapid weight loss

• Surgical complications, like infection or bleeding, following bariatric surgery

• Low blood sugar (if you're taking obesity medicines with diabetes medicines)

Lifestyle Changes for Managing Obesity

Lifestyle modifications like the ones listed below lay down the basic framework for obesity management and can be used alongside drug therapy or surgery, as applicable:

• Adhere to a balanced diet that restricts calories.

• Exercise regularly for 150-300 minutes each week.

• Restrict the consumption of sweetened beverages and ultra-processed foods.

• Keep meal timings consistent and practise portion control.

• Ensure you get adequate sleep, aiming for 7-9 hours each night.

• Keep a check on body weight.

• Limit sedentary behaviour and excessive screen time.

Triggers That Can Worsen Symptoms of Obesity

Some of the contributing factors for gaining weight and managing obesity include:

• Excess calorie intake and consumption of processed foods

• Lack of exercise and prolonged sitting

• Inadequate sleep

• High-stress levels and emotional eating

• Use of certain drugs like corticosteroids and anti-depressants

• Excessive consumption of alcohol

• Skipping follow-ups or treatment plans

Obesity Treatment Cost

The cost of treating obesity in India will depend on doctor consultations, investigations, prescribed medicines, nutrition counselling and the need for bariatric surgery. Lifestyle modification programmes are generally less expensive than prescription drugs or bariatric surgery. In private hospitals, bariatric surgery typically costs between ₹2 lakh and ₹6.5 lakh, depending on the hospital, city, and type of procedure.

Does Health Insurance Cover Obesity Treatment in India?

Yes. In India, several health insurance plans cover the cost of bariatric surgery, provided it is medically necessary, and the policy criteria are met. However, lifestyle-related obesity treatment for cosmetic purposes or weight loss medicines are not covered by medical insurance. However, the exact coverage varies by policy terms and insurer. Moreover, waiting periods apply to bariatric surgery.