Dr. Alexander Abkin Recognized as a New Jersey Top Doctor in Bariatric Surgery for 2025

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Dr. Alexander Abkin, renowned New Jersey bariatric surgeon, has once again been recognized as a New Jersey Top Doctor in Bariatric Surgery for 2025 by New Jersey Monthly Magazine. This prestigious honor marks the 18th consecutive year that Dr. Abkin has earned this distinction, underscoring his exceptional expertise and unwavering commitment to improving the health and well-being of his patients through life-changing weight loss surgery.

Dr. Abkin’s recognition in the New Jersey Monthly survey is a result of peer nominations, where physicians across the state vote for their colleagues who demonstrate excellence in their specialty. Being named to this list year after year highlights Dr. Abkin’s standing as a leader in bariatric surgery and his dedication to delivering the highest standard of care to individuals seeking sustainable weight loss solutions.

“Being recognized as a Top Doctor is a great honor, and I am deeply grateful for the trust my patients and fellow physicians have placed in me over the years,” said Dr. Abkin. “My goal has always been to provide compassionate, individualized care that not only helps my patients achieve their weight loss goals but also empowers them to lead healthier, more fulfilling lives.”

Dr. Abkin is highly respected in the field of bariatric surgery, specializing in laparoscopic procedures, weight loss surgery, and minimally invasive techniques. He is known for his expertise in both gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy procedures, as well as his comprehensive approach to patient care that includes pre- and post-surgery support.

Throughout his career, Dr. Abkin has earned a reputation for his innovative approach, which combines cutting-edge technology with a deep understanding of his patients’ unique needs. His practice is dedicated to providing personalized care that addresses not only the physical aspects of weight loss but also the psychological and emotional challenges that accompany the journey.

Dr. Abkin is also an active member of several professional organizations, including the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS), and regularly participates in research, education, and speaking engagements to advance the field of bariatric surgery.

About Dr. Alexander Abkin

Dr. Alexander Abkin is a board-certified bariatric surgeon with over two and a half decades of experience in weight loss surgery. He is a pioneer in minimally invasive techniques and has performed thousands of successful surgeries. Dr. Abkin is dedicated to providing patients with compassionate care and a path to lasting health transformation. He practices in Florham Park, Edison and Paramus, where he and his team offer a comprehensive suite of services, including bariatric surgery, nutritional counseling, and long-term patient support.

For more information about Dr. Abkin’s practice or to schedule a consultation, please call 973-410-9700.

Why Bariatric Surgery Beats Weight-Loss Medications for Long-Term Success

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If you’ve been thinking about ways to lose weight and improve your health, you’ve probably heard a lot about popular medications like semaglutide and tirzepatide (brand names such as Ozempic®, Wegovy®, and Mounjaro®). These drugs can help some people lose weight, but new research shows they don’t come close to the long-term results of bariatric surgery.

In a study of more than 50,000 patients from NYU Langone Health and NYC Health + Hospitals, people who had bariatric surgery – such as gastric sleeve or gastric bypass – lost nearly five times more weight than those who only used GLP-1 medications.

Here’s what the researchers found after two years:

  • Gastric sleeve patients lost about 23% of their total body weight.
  • Gastric bypass patients lost about 25% of their total body weight.
  • Patients on medications alone lost only 5–9% of their total body weight – and only if they stayed on the drugs for at least a year.

“These results reinforce what we’ve known for decades – bariatric surgery is not only safe, but it is by far the most effective tool for long-term weight loss and improvement in obesity-related diseases,” explained Dr. Alexander Abkin, a bariatric surgeon in New Jersey. “Surgery works by resetting your metabolism and reducing hunger hormones, which makes it much easier to keep the weight off. No pill can do that.”

Another challenge with weight-loss medications is that they must be taken long-term to maintain results—and they can cost more than $1,000 a month. If you stop taking them, the weight often comes back. Bariatric surgery, on the other hand, is a one-time treatment that is usually covered by insurance.

“It’s not just about the number on the scale,” said Dr. Abkin. “We see patients’ diabetes improve or go into remission, blood pressure come down, sleep apnea resolve, and overall quality of life improve dramatically after surgery. These are changes that medications alone just can’t match.”

The good news is that bariatric surgery today is safer and less invasive than ever before. Most procedures are done laparoscopically, which means small incisions, faster recovery, and lasting results backed by decades of research.

For anyone considering their options, Dr. Abkin has this advice – “If you want to lose a little weight for a short period, medications may help. But if you want lasting weight loss and a real improvement in your health, surgery is the most effective tool we have. It’s a life-changing investment in your future.”

Dr. Abkin Named 2025 Top Doctor by New Jersey Monthly

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Dr. Alexander Abkin Named a 2025 Top Doctor by New Jersey Monthly

Fairfield, NJ – July 2, 2025 – Dr. Alexander Abkin has once again been named a Top Doctor in New Jersey by New Jersey Monthly magazine for 2025. This award recognizes doctors across the state who are trusted and highly respected by their peers and patients—and Dr. Abkin continues to earn that distinction year after year.

Dr. Abkin is a board-certified surgeon who has helped thousands of people through life-changing weight loss surgery. Known for his compassionate care, surgical skill, and commitment to his patients’ long-term success, Dr. Abkin has built a reputation as one of the leading bariatric surgeons in the region.

“I’m incredibly honored to be recognized again this year,” said Dr. Abkin. “This award means a lot because it reflects the trust of my patients and fellow physicians. I’m grateful to do the work I love with such a dedicated team.”

Each year, New Jersey Monthly surveys thousands of licensed doctors to find out who they would recommend to their own family and friends. The doctors who receive the most votes and meet the highest standards of professional excellence make the final list.

For over 24 years, Dr. Abkin has been helping patients improve their health and quality of life through procedures like gastric sleeve, gastric bypass, and revision surgery. He performs 8 to 10 surgeries each week and remains at the forefront of new techniques and patient care

For more information or to schedule an appointment, please contact us today.

Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass Outperforms GLP-1 Medications in Long-Term Weight Loss

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As a board-certified bariatric surgeon, I’ve seen firsthand how life-changing weight loss surgery can be—not just in pounds lost, but in health regained. With the recent surge in popularity of GLP-1 medications like Ozempic and Wegovy, many patients are wondering whether these drugs are a viable alternative to revisional bariatric surgery.

A recent multicenter study helps answer that question—and the results are compelling.

The Study: Surgery vs. Medication After Sleeve Gastrectomy

Researchers examined nearly 5,000 patients who had previously undergone sleeve gastrectomy but experienced insufficient weight loss or weight regain. These patients were divided into two groups:

  • One group underwent conversion to Roux-en-Y gastric bypass.

  • The other initiated GLP-1 receptor agonist therapy (such as semaglutide or tirzepatide).

The results? Those who underwent gastric bypass surgery saw significantly greater and more sustained weight loss at every follow-up interval, from three months to three years.

“Roux-en-Y gastric bypass remains the most powerful and durable solution for patients who experience weight regain or insufficient results after sleeve gastrectomy,” says Dr. Abkin. “Medications can help, but they simply can’t match the long-term outcomes of surgery—especially when it comes to total body weight loss.”

The Numbers Don’t Lie

At the three-year mark, patients who converted to gastric bypass lost 26.1% of their total body weight, compared to just 13.7% for those on GLP-1 medications. And this wasn’t a temporary win—bypass patients outperformed GLP-1 users at every single checkpoint.

Time Post-Intervention GLP-1 Therapy Roux-en-Y Bypass
3 months –9.8% –14.9%
6 months –12.5% –26.7%
1 year –13.1% –30.4%
2 years –13.7% –29.8%
3 years –13.7% –26.1%

“We’re not just talking about better numbers—we’re talking about real, lasting change that improves patients’ quality of life,” Dr. Abkin emphasizes.

Diabetes Control and Beyond

Interestingly, the study found no significant difference between groups in terms of blood sugar control (as measured by hemoglobin A1c). But when you consider the double-digit advantage in total weight loss, the benefits of surgery for long-term health become even more apparent.

“GLP-1 drugs can support temporary blood sugar regulation, but weight loss remains the most effective and sustainable way to reverse type 2 diabetes,” says Dr. Abkin. “Gastric bypass offers both—without relying on ongoing medication use.”

The Hidden Costs of GLP-1 Medications

Another important consideration is the cost of treatment. While GLP-1 medications can cost upwards of $1,300 per month, studies show that the financial break-even point compared to surgery is around 18 months. And that doesn’t include additional factors like:

  • Complication rates

  • Medication shortages

  • Out-of-pocket costs due to limited insurance coverage

“The cost of surgery may seem significant up front, but when you factor in the long-term savings and the permanence of the solution, it’s an investment in your health that pays off,” Dr. Abkin explains.

The Bottom Line: Why Choose Surgery?

While GLP-1 medications may have a role in treating obesity, they come with limitations—side effects, ongoing cost, and diminishing returns once therapy stops. Meanwhile, Roux-en-Y gastric bypass delivers superior, sustained weight loss, improved metabolic health, and a proven track record of long-term success.

“Medications are a tool,” Dr. Abkin says, “but for patients who want a permanent, transformative solution, bariatric surgery—particularly gastric bypass—remains the gold standard.”

If you’ve had a sleeve gastrectomy and are struggling with weight regain or plateaued progress, let’s talk. You don’t have to settle for temporary fixes. You deserve a lasting solution.

Why Ozempic Is Sending Patients to the ER – And the Unregulated “Wild West” Behind It

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In recent years, GLP-1 medications like Ozempic and Wegovy have surged in popularity as weight-loss solutions. But despite their FDA approval and initial promise, more patients are discovering the serious downsides—some even landing in the emergency room.

“I’ve seen firsthand how hopeful patients are when they start these medications,” says Dr. Alexander Abkin, board-certified bariatric surgeon in New Jersey. “But I’ve also seen the distress when side effects derail their progress or send them to the hospital. That’s where bariatric surgery offers a more predictable, long-term solution.”

ER Visits on the Rise for Ozempic Users

A recent study published in the Annals of Internal Medicine tracked semaglutide-related emergency room visits across 82 hospitals. The data revealed that 70% of these visits were due to gastrointestinal distress—nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea being the most common culprits.

Dr. Abkin explains, “These medications work by slowing digestion, which can make people feel full longer. But for many, that mechanism backfires, leading to complications like gastroparesis, or even what’s being called ‘stomach paralysis.’”

Other ER visit causes included:

  • Low blood sugar (16.5%), which surprisingly led to hospitalization in nearly 38% of those cases.
  • Gallbladder inflammation, often a result of rapid, unregulated weight loss.
  • Pancreatitis, bile duct issues, and rare complications like nerve pain (allodynia).

“GLP-1 medications are marketed as easy fixes,” Dr. Abkin adds. “But the reality is, these drugs can introduce a whole new set of medical risks—especially when patients are using compounded versions that aren’t FDA-regulated.”

The “Wild West” of Weight Loss Medications

One alarming trend is the rise of off-brand compounded semaglutide. Unlike FDA-approved versions, these medications are often prepared in non-standardized ways, increasing the risk of dosage errors and adverse reactions.

“It’s the Wild West out there,” warns Dr. Abkin. “Patients are buying medications online or from unverified providers. They’re injecting themselves without proper monitoring. It’s incredibly risky.”

As a result, patients are experiencing unexpected complications—from vision issues and gallstones to changes in mood and body composition (commonly referred to as ‘Ozempic face’ or ‘Ozempic butt’).

Why Bariatric Surgery Is a Safer, Proven Alternative

Dr. Abkin emphasizes that while medications may offer short-term weight loss, bariatric surgery remains the gold standard for sustainable, long-term weight control—particularly for those with obesity-related health conditions.

“With surgery, we’re not just putting a Band-Aid on hunger,” says Dr. Abkin. “We’re addressing the root metabolic causes of obesity. And we’re doing it in a way that’s safe, supervised, and proven by decades of outcomes data.”

Key advantages of bariatric surgery over GLP-1 drugs include:

  • Long-term success: Weight loss is more significant and sustainable over time.
  • Improvement or resolution of comorbidities: Diabetes, high blood pressure, and sleep apnea often improve dramatically.
  • No dependency on lifelong medication: Unlike injections, surgery doesn’t require daily or weekly maintenance for the rest of your life.
  • Lower risk of GI-related complications when procedures are performed by experienced, board-certified surgeons in accredited centers.

A Word of Caution for GLP-1 Users

Dr. Abkin stresses that patients currently taking Ozempic or Wegovy should be closely monitored. “If you’re experiencing severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, or signs of low blood sugar, it’s time to seek immediate medical attention—and reconsider your long-term plan.”

He also encourages patients to work with qualified providers, not online clinics or social media-driven programs.

“Weight loss is not one-size-fits-all. If you’re serious about improving your health and quality of life, talk to a specialist. Talk to a surgeon. Your future deserves more than a quick fix.”

Schedule a Consultation with Dr. Alexander Abkin Today

If you’re ready to explore a safer, more effective alternative to GLP-1 medications, Dr. Abkin and his experienced team are here to help. Schedule your bariatric surgery consultation and take the first step toward lasting, transformative weight loss.

Comparing Weight Loss and Health Outcomes: Sleeve Gastrectomy vs. Gastric Bypass

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When it comes to bariatric surgery, two of the most common procedures are laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (SG) and Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB). However, there’s been a lack of long-term data comparing the outcomes of these surgeries, particularly beyond the five-year mark. That’s where the SM-BOSS study comes in.

Dr. Alexander Abkin, a New Jersey-based bariatric surgeon, explains: “While both procedures can lead to significant weight loss, patients often wonder which procedure provides the best long-term outcomes. The SM-BOSS study sheds important light on this question.”

The Study Design

The SM-BOSS trial, which ran from January 2007 to November 2011, included 3,971 patients with severe obesity. Of those, 217 were enrolled and randomly assigned to undergo either SG or RYGB at four bariatric centers in Switzerland. With a decade of follow-up data now available, this study provides crucial insights into the long-term weight loss, metabolic improvements, and quality of life for both groups of patients.

Dr. Abkin shares: “This study is particularly valuable because it gives us insight into the effects of these surgeries a decade after the procedures, which is rare in the field of bariatrics.”

Key Findings

The primary goal of the study was to compare the percentage of excess body mass index loss (%EBMIL) at the 5-year mark. However, the latest data includes outcomes at 10 years and beyond, providing a deeper understanding of how patients fared long term.

Weight Loss:

After 10 years, patients who underwent RYGB experienced a higher %EBMIL compared to those who had SG, though the difference wasn’t statistically significant across the whole study group. On average, RYGB patients had a %EBMIL of 65.2%, while SG patients had 60.6%. However, when looking at patients who followed the study’s protocol, RYGB patients had a notably higher %EBMIL than those who had SG (65.9% vs. 56.1%, respectively).

Dr. Abkin notes: “The difference in weight loss between RYGB and SG becomes more apparent in patients who adhere to their surgical protocol, though both procedures are effective for the majority of patients.”

Reoperation Rates:

One of the most important findings from this study is the higher conversion rates for SG. That is, patients who underwent SG were more likely to require additional surgery due to insufficient weight loss or complications like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Specifically, 29.9% of SG patients required a conversion, compared to just 5.5% of RYGB patients. This is a significant difference and speaks to the reliability of RYGB for long-term outcomes.

“For patients looking for a more stable long-term solution, RYGB seems to offer an edge in terms of reducing the need for reoperation,” says Dr. Abkin. “SG, while effective initially, may lead to more issues down the line, such as GERD or suboptimal weight loss.”

GERD and Quality of Life:

A key point in the study was the difference in the incidence of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). SG patients were found to have a significantly higher rate of GERD compared to RYGB patients. This underscores a common issue with sleeve gastrectomy: it can lead to a worsening of reflux symptoms over time.

“GERD is a major concern for many of my patients undergoing SG, and the data here highlights why some patients may experience discomfort years after surgery,” Dr. Abkin comments.

Long-Term Health:

The study also looked at metabolic outcomes, showing that both procedures led to improvements in obesity-related diseases, like diabetes and hypertension. However, the long-term benefits were more pronounced in the RYGB group.

RYGB Shows Stronger Long-Term Results

While both SG and RYGB are effective weight loss surgeries, the SM-BOSS study reveals that RYGB provides better long-term weight loss results and fewer complications, particularly when it comes to GERD and the need for reoperations.

Dr. Abkin concludes: “Both SG and RYGB can help patients achieve significant weight loss, but the findings of this study suggest that RYGB might offer a more reliable, long-term solution for those struggling with obesity. However, it’s important to note that the choice of surgery depends on individual health conditions and goals.”

Ultimately, patients considering bariatric surgery should work closely with a skilled bariatric surgeon to choose the procedure that best aligns with their long-term health and weight loss goals.

Bariatric Surgery: A Life-Saving Solution to Combat Heart Disease

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Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in America, and with obesity rates climbing, the urgency for effective solutions has never been greater. Recent findings from the American Heart Association’s (AHA) 2025 Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics report highlight the critical need for intervention. With cardiovascular disease responsible for more deaths than all cancers and accidental fatalities combined, it’s time to take action.

Dr. Alexander Abkin, a leading bariatric surgeon in New Jersey, stresses the role of weight loss surgery in reducing heart disease risk. “Obesity is a driving force behind conditions like hypertension, diabetes, and high cholesterol—all major risk factors for heart disease. Bariatric surgery isn’t just about weight loss; it’s about saving lives.”

The Alarming Rise of Obesity and Heart Disease

The statistics paint a grim picture: In 2022 alone, 941,652 Americans lost their lives to heart disease-related conditions. While smoking rates have declined and cholesterol levels have improved, the battle against obesity remains an uphill fight.

More than 72% of U.S. adults now have an “unhealthy weight” (BMI of 25 or higher), with nearly 42% classified as obese (BMI of 30 or more). Even more concerning, over half of all U.S. adults (57%) have type 2 diabetes or prediabetes—both closely linked to excess weight.

“Obesity isn’t just a cosmetic issue—it’s a medical crisis,” says Dr. Abkin. “Excess weight places enormous strain on the heart, leading to high blood pressure, diabetes, and eventually heart failure or stroke. Bariatric surgery offers a proven way to reverse these conditions and extend life expectancy.”

Bariatric Surgery: A Proven Solution

With excess weight contributing to nearly 500,000 deaths annually—more than smoking—medical professionals are emphasizing the need for aggressive intervention. Research has shown that weight loss surgery can dramatically reduce the risk of heart disease and related conditions.

“Studies show that bariatric surgery leads to long-term weight loss, significant improvement in diabetes and high blood pressure, and a drastic reduction in heart disease-related mortality,” Dr. Abkin explains. “Patients who undergo weight loss surgery can reduce their risk of heart attack and stroke by nearly 50%.”

Beyond heart health, bariatric surgery has been linked to improved quality of life, increased mobility, and even mental health benefits.

The AHA’s report warns that, if current trends continue, obesity and hypertension will each affect more than 180 million U.S. adults by 2050, with diabetes cases surpassing 80 million. This would result in a staggering 300% increase in cardiovascular-related healthcare costs.

“We can’t afford to wait,” Dr. Abkin urges. “Bariatric surgery isn’t just about losing weight—it’s about gaining years of life. For those struggling with obesity and its complications, it’s one of the most effective medical interventions available.”

The latest advancements in bariatric procedures have made weight loss surgery safer and more effective than ever. With minimally invasive techniques and comprehensive post-surgical support, more patients are achieving lasting health improvements.

If you or a loved one is struggling with obesity and related health issues, now is the time to explore life-saving options. Contact us today and take the first step toward a healthier future.

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Bedside Stapling in Robotic Bariatric Surgery: A Cheaper, Safer Option?

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A new study is shaking up the world of robotic bariatric surgery by showing that a technique called “bedside stapling”—which involves using laparoscopic staplers manually at the patient’s bedside—could be just as effective as robotic staplers, but with a lot of added benefits. In fact, the study found that bedside stapling leads to fewer ICU stays, shorter hospital visits, and lower overall healthcare costs.

Dr. Alexander Abkin, a bariatric surgeon based in New Jersey, emphasizes that this finding could help make bariatric surgeries like gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy more accessible to patients in smaller hospitals, where resources may be more limited.

“Most patients who undergo bariatric surgery are looking for effective treatment at a lower cost,” Dr. Abkin says. “If bedside stapling can achieve the same results with fewer complications and lower healthcare utilization, it’s a win for both patients and the healthcare system.”

What Is Bedside Stapling?

In robotic bariatric surgery, staplers are used to secure parts of the stomach and intestines. Traditionally, robotic staplers—controlled by a robotic arm—have been seen as the gold standard. However, the new study compares robotic staplers with “bedside staplers,” which are manually controlled but still used during minimally invasive, robotic-assisted surgery. The key finding is that bedside staplers are just as effective, but they come with a significant reduction in costs and complications.

The Study’s Findings

In a large-scale study analyzing over 7,200 patients who had bariatric surgery in 2021, researchers found that patients who had bedside stapling were less likely to experience complications like needing a blood transfusion or staying in the ICU. In fact, these patients spent less time in the hospital overall, which meant lower healthcare costs.

Comparing the Two Techniques

The study compared two groups: one group used bedside staplers (1,603 patients), and the other used robotic staplers (5,665 patients). The results were eye-opening:

  • Patients using robotic staplers were more likely to need blood transfusions and stay in the ICU. They also had longer surgery times and higher costs.
  • Patients using bedside staplers had fewer ICU stays, shorter surgeries, and overall lower healthcare costs, even when accounting for differences in patient backgrounds.

Dr. Abkin agrees, saying, “It’s clear from the study that bedside stapling offers an opportunity to improve efficiency in surgery. The reduction in ICU stays and overall hospital costs is significant. This is crucial, especially in a healthcare landscape that’s becoming more focused on cost-effectiveness.”

What Does This Mean for the Future?

The study’s findings could have a major impact on how bariatric surgery is performed in the future. Bedside stapling could be a game-changer, particularly in smaller hospitals or places with limited access to high-end robotic technology. Dr. Billy’s study shows that the procedure is not only effective, but also more affordable, making it a potentially sustainable option for a broader range of healthcare settings.

In fact, Dr. Billy noted that bedside stapling might become a common practice as healthcare providers look to cut costs without compromising patient safety or outcomes. “As we move toward more cost-effective and efficient healthcare, bedside stapling is a promising option, especially in smaller hospitals where robotic systems might not be available,” he said.

The study highlights that bedside stapling could be a more affordable and just as effective alternative to robotic stapling in bariatric surgery. Fewer ICU stays, shorter hospitalizations, and lower costs could make this technique particularly attractive to hospitals looking to offer quality care without the high price tag. As Dr. Abkin puts it, “With healthcare costs rising, anything that can reduce the financial burden while still delivering top-notch care is a win for everyone involved.”

So, while robotic surgery still has its place, the future of bariatric surgery might just be going back to basics with a twist—and it’s looking like bedside stapling is here to stay.

Bariatric Surgery: The Most Effective Solution for Long-Term Weight Loss

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A recent study has clearly demonstrated that bariatric surgery is more effective than both lifestyle changes and medications for maintaining weight loss. Dr. Alexander Abkin, a bariatric surgeon in New Jersey, states, “When it comes to keeping weight off for the long term, surgery outshines medications and lifestyle changes without question.”

Presented at the 2024 annual meeting of the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery, this analysis combined data from six major studies involving over 40,000 patients. It’s the first comprehensive review to focus on this critical comparison.

The study examined:

  • Bariatric Surgery: This included two procedures—Roux-en-Y gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy—encompassing nearly 25,000 patients.
  • Lifestyle Changes: Only about 723 patients were included in this category, relying primarily on diet and exercise.
  • Medications: The analysis also assessed GLP-1 medications, such as semaglutide and tirzepatide, with over 15,000 patients participating.

Lifestyle changes yielded an average weight loss of just 7.4%, and participants frequently regained that weight within a few years. “Lifestyle interventions fall short in providing lasting results,” Dr. Abkin explains.

When it comes to medications, while they can help some patients lose weight, the results are significantly less effective than those achieved through surgery. Many patients who use GLP-1 medications regain a substantial portion of the weight once they stop taking them. Roughly half of the weight lost was regained within a year after stopping injections; with continued injections, weight loss plateaued after 17 to 18 months. In contrast, bariatric surgery often leads to a loss of around 30% of body weight, with patients maintaining much of that loss over time.

This study indicates bariatric surgery is not just more effective than lifestyle changes but is also far superior to medications for long-term weight management. As Dr. Abkin adds, “For those struggling with obesity, surgery is the most effective path to achieving and sustaining significant weight loss, providing benefits that medications simply can’t match.”

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Woman Alleges Ozempic Led to Colon Removal

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A woman named Juanita Gantt has filed a lawsuit against Novo Nordisk, the company behind the diabetes drugs Ozempic and Wegovy, claiming that the medications caused serious side effects that weren’t adequately warned about on the label.

Gantt shared her story, explaining that her doctor initially prescribed Wegovy, and later Ozempic, due to concerns she was at risk of developing diabetes. At the time, she weighed 242 pounds. For a while, Gantt said the drugs worked well for her: “I was feeling fine. I enjoyed the days that I didn’t have to worry about my appetite. I didn’t have cravings. I just felt like I was doing something positive for myself.”

However, in October 2023, Gantt experienced a life-threatening complication. She collapsed at home and was rushed to the hospital, where doctors discovered that parts of her large intestine had died and needed to be removed. During her recovery, Gantt’s heart stopped, and she now lives with an ileostomy bag, a medical device that helps her body eliminate waste.

Gantt said she had no warning that such serious complications could happen. The main ingredients in Ozempic and Wegovy—semaglutide and liraglutide—are part of a class of drugs called GLP-1 receptor agonists. These drugs can slow digestion, which can sometimes lead to severe digestive issues if taken long-term. Last year, similar drugs were linked to cases of stomach paralysis, a condition where digestion is dangerously delayed.

Dr. Alexander Abkin, a bariatric surgeon in New Jersey, emphasizes the importance of understanding all treatment options for weight loss. “Medications like Ozempic and Wegovy can be effective in managing weight, but they do come with risks, as we’ve seen in recent cases. Bariatric surgery, on the other hand, has been proven to offer long-term weight loss benefits with a more predictable outcome. For many patients, especially those with severe obesity, surgery can provide a safer and more effective solution.”

Novo Nordisk, the drug’s manufacturer, responded to the lawsuit, stating that they are sympathetic to Gantt’s health challenges but believe the lawsuit has no merit. They also mentioned that their GLP-1 medications have been used safely for many years and that potential risks are clearly outlined in the product’s labeling.

Dr. Abkin adds, “While medications can help in specific cases, bariatric surgery remains one of the most reliable ways to achieve significant, lasting weight loss. It not only helps patients lose weight but also resolves conditions like diabetes, sleep apnea, and hypertension. Patients need to weigh all options and consider what will provide them with the safest, most sustainable results.”