The Health Ministry lifted a previously imposed three-month limit on the use of the weight-loss medication Rezin after a series of studies and now allows long-term treatment. The regulatory change is expected to benefit tens of thousands of patients, offering a safe and cost-effective alternative to weight-loss injections.
Data presented two weeks ago, during a joint discussion between the Health and Education Committees on preventing obesity and diabetes in children and teens, highlighted an alarming trend: one-third of Israeli youth are overweight or obese, with 12.8% classified as obese. Projections for 2030 paint an even bleaker picture.
Dr. Batya Kornboim, a family medicine expert specializing in obesity prevention and treatment, called the decision a “real breakthrough” for Rezin patients. “Obesity is a chronic condition that requires prolonged care, so this change provides an effective and safe option for long-term management,” she said.
Obesity: A complex chronic disease
Obesity isn’t merely a cosmetic concern—it’s a chronic disease affecting numerous bodily systems. It is linked to serious health issues, including diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, joint problems, certain cancers, and infertility in young women. Beyond physical health, obesity has significant social implications, such as workplace discrimination, social stigma, and damage to self-esteem.
Experts increasingly recognize that obesity is not solely a matter of personal choice but is influenced by genetic and environmental factors.
Rezin: An accessible long-term solution
The regulatory shift offers a less expensive and more accessible option compared to weight-loss injections. Dr. Rakefet Bachrach, a family medicine specialist and board member of the Israeli Society for Research and Treatment of Obesity, explained how Rezin works: “The drug affects appetite mechanisms in the brain, reducing hunger and creating a feeling of fullness. While it’s not as potent as injections, Rezin is a practical and affordable alternative for many patients who either cannot or prefer not to use injections.”
Dr. Bachrach emphasized the importance of continuous treatment in chronic conditions like obesity. “Stopping treatment can lead to rebound weight gain, often exceeding the original weight, making future weight loss more challenging,” she said.
While Rezin has been marketed in Israel for years, its use was limited due to concerns about potential heart valve issues, based on findings from a similar medication. However, recent long-term studies have confirmed its safety.
A decision backed by evidence
The Israeli Society for Research and Treatment of Obesity played a key role in removing the restrictions. “For two years, we submitted studies proving that Rezin is not only safe for long-term use but also effective in supporting weight loss,” said Dr. Bachrach.
The Health Ministry ultimately accepted the evidence, removing the limitation. “Patient welfare was our top priority. We would never recommend a medication that poses risks,” Dr. Bachrach added. She noted that common side effects, such as dry mouth, constipation, and mild digestive issues, usually subside within weeks.
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This change allows physicians to prescribe Rezin for as long as medically necessary, offering new hope for patients who previously struggled with weight regain after the three-month limit.
No magic solution
Dr. Bachrach stressed that weight-loss medications are not a cure-all. Effective treatment requires lifestyle changes, including regular exercise, a tailored diet, and support from a multidisciplinary team. “The updated policy on Rezin provides another tool in the fight against obesity, recognizing it as a complex disease requiring a comprehensive approach,” she concluded.