Who is medical weight loss suitable for?

The BMI criteria

In the assessment, your BMI (body mass index, weight in relation to height) is often considered:

• a BMI of 30 or higher (obesity), or
• a BMI of 27 or higher in combination with a weight-related condition.

Waist circumference can also be taken into account. Unsure about your starting point? Calculate your BMI first or discuss it with your GP.

Weight-related conditions

For a BMI between 27 and 30, it matters whether there is a condition linked to weight, such as:

• type 2 diabetes or prediabetes;
• high blood pressure or cardiovascular risk;
• sleep apnoea;
• osteoarthritis or joint complaints due to excess weight.

These factors can increase the medical necessity. The doctor weighs up your whole situation.

When it is not suitable

Medical weight loss is not intended for everyone. It is not a solution for a small, cosmetic weight goal, and there are situations in which the medication is not advised or calls for extra caution — for example during pregnancy or with certain conditions. Read more about this on are weight-loss medications dangerous? and pregnancy & breastfeeding.

The doctor decides together with you

Whether you are eligible is a medical consideration that you make together with a doctor during the intake. This also includes a realistic conversation about expectations and about the role of lifestyle. Read what happens at the doctor's intake, and which routes there are if medication is not (yet) an option on alternatives without medication.

Frequently asked questions