Weight Loss Drugs for Permanent Ileostomy Patients

Wondering if any permanent ileostomy patients have tried any of the new weight loss drugs and if so, do they work the same as they do for normal patients; i.e.  can they be absorbed normally for us? Anyone who’s tried them tell me what your experience has been. Thanks. 

What weight loss drugs are you exactly referring to?

Zepbound

Wegovy

Saxenda

Setmelanotide

Or... Ozempic  ??

I’m asking about the use of any of those drugs if you’ve used them and if they worked? Doesn’t matter which one. Thanks!

I'm really skinny.  So no need to lose weight.  I wanted to find out which drugs you were considering, so others on this web site could post a specific reply.

This is a world wide site.  So I'm sure there's someone out there with the experience to offer sage advice.

Hi Vette

I've been on Ozempic for 2 years for newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes. At first I had a bit of tummy upset and runny stools (ileostomy 4 yrs now) but it settled after a couple weeks. Normal people seem to have very severe diarrhea, but I use Imodium/loperamide to slow my output down and that is an advantage. Only lost 25 lbs and have been hovering up and down 5 lbs for a few months. Diet and exercise still make a big difference. Now that summer is over I can go back to my healthy routine and get back on track (cut back on ice cream 🍨). 

My Ostomy Journey: LeeAnne | Hollister

I think that is how some weight loss drugs work; you get diarrhea and so you lose weight. I am skeptical. I might have to try to get my insurance to cover one of those drugs soon, because of my diabetes, but I am still skeptical of them working. The commercials promise weight loss of 45 pounds or more (Wegovy), but I just can't see that happening.

I've done some research. Most of those drugs only say approx. 10 lbs to lose, and if you stop them the weight comes right back, and they are very expensive. Diarrhea is a big problem with them. For the person that uses immodium, that is contrary to what is suggested use. I know of 2 people that ended up in the hospital using immodium. And not from overuse. Immodium works by paralyzing your intestines, I wouldn't recommend that to anyone.

Hello, I have read that drugs like Ozempic can cause terrible dehydration and subsequent kidney problems. In England, some GPs have been prescribing it for patients with weight problems with ileostomies. My weight has increased, so I have been referred to go on a dietitian-led course, and also an exercise protocol to balance out my slightly raised blood sugars. I am considering taking berberine to see if that helps too.

I am warned by my endocrinologist and GI doctors that the injections or pill forms of Ozempic, etc., are not suitable for me since I only have a small intestine. These meds can cause a frozen intestine, and then I could really have a problem. I have also tried phentermine, and not only was it not helpful, it created extreme thirst. I have also tried a diet called Optavia. This is mainly made up of fiber and unfortunately, almost blocked me to the point where I could have needed surgery if it didn't work out. I do take Berberine, which helps to make me feel full, but I use a very small dose. I commented to my husband that pizza and ice cream never put me in the hospital, and he's going to live with a chubby wife, and thank goodness, he doesn't mind.