Q. I experienced side effects from conventional weight loss medication; how can Traditional Korean Medicine help me manage them?

Many patients come to our clinic suffering from side effects of conventional weight loss drugs, reporting symptoms such as chronic nausea, persistent diarrhea, severe fatigue, and insomnia. From a TKM perspective, these side effects generally fall into two patterns: one where the gastrointestinal system is overstimulated leading to the formation of Blood Stasis (瘀血), and another where rapid fluid loss leads to the accumulation of Phlegm-Fluid (痰飮). If left untreated, these conditions can further impair metabolic function and increase the likelihood of a 'yo-yo effect,' where weight rapidly rebounds after stopping the medication. In TKM, we first examine the possibility of Spleen Deficiency (脾虛). Since the Spleen is central to digestion and fluid metabolism, medication-induced Spleen weakness leads to poor digestion, abdominal bloating, and the accumulation of Phlegm-Fluid. Therefore, our treatment principle is to 'strengthen the Spleen and Stomach, resolve accumulated Phlegm, and clear Blood Stasis.' For example, a male office worker in his late 40s visited us with severe abdominal bloating and constipation while using Saxenda. After diagnosing him with Spleen Deficiency complicated by Phlegm-Fluid through pulse and tongue diagnosis, we prescribed a herbal formula based on Pyeongwi-san (平胃散) and Oryeong-san (五苓散). After two weeks, his shoulder tension eased and constipation resolved; after one month, the sequelae from the weight loss medication had largely stabilized. This approach is tailored to the individual; those with chronic side effects or organic gastrointestinal issues may require a longer treatment period. If you have experienced these side effects, I recommend a consultation to accurately assess your current state and determine the necessary herbal composition and acupuncture plan.