The pros and cons of injectable weight loss medications

New data on GLP-1 injectable weight loss drugs has found that while they have several health benefits, the list of potentially dangerous side effects remains.

Doctors say that for many patients, these medications help them get control of their obesity and other weight-related medical issues, along with improving their blood sugar and heart health. A new study says these drugs provide people with additional health benefits as well.

The study, published in the Journal Nature Medicine, is based on data from 200,000 patients who have been on weight-loss drugs medications for nearly four years.

Compared to people not on medication, those on GLP-1's had a reduced the risk of substance use, suicidal ideation, psychotic problems. seizures, clotting disorders, fatty liver disease and liver cancer.

Researchers say the medications may also reduce the risk of brain disorders.

Data showed patients are at risk of getting nausea, vomiting, reflux and severe abdominal pain.

Other side effects include low blood pressure, problems sleeping, acute pancreatitis and kidney stones or inflammation which can show up as pain in the side and back.

Doctors recommend patients read up on all side effects, including potential ones.