ACHD Health Night Out
Learn About GLP-1 Weight-Loss Medications at ACHD’s Health Night Out in Mexico, Missouri
New medications designed to help people lose weight—especially drugs known as GLP-1 receptor agonists—have been making headlines nationwide. Medications such as Wegovy®, Ozempic®, Zepbound® and Mounjaro® are helping many patients achieve significant weight loss when combined with healthy lifestyle changes.
But with so much information circulating online, many people are left wondering what’s accurate, what’s hype and whether these treatments may be appropriate for them.
To help answer those questions, the Audrain County Health Department (ACHD) is hosting a Health Night Out educational event in Mexico, Missouri, where community members can learn more about FDA-approved weight-loss medications and how they work.
What Are GLP-1 Weight-Loss Medications?
GLP-1 receptor agonists are a class of medications that mimic a hormone naturally produced in the body called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1).
This hormone helps regulate several important functions, including:
Blood sugar levels
Appetite and hunger signals
Digestion and stomach emptying
By affecting these systems, GLP-1 medications can help people feel full longer, reduce appetite and support weight loss.
These medications were originally developed to treat type 2 diabetes, but some versions are now FDA-approved specifically for weight management in adults with obesity or certain weight-related health conditions.
How Effective Are New Weight-Loss Medications?
Traditional weight-loss medications have historically helped patients lose about 5–7% of body weight when combined with diet and exercise.
Newer GLP-1 medications have shown 10–20% weight loss in many patients, depending on the treatment plan and individual health factors.
While these medications can be effective, they are not appropriate for everyone. A healthcare provider can help determine whether a patient may benefit from these treatments based on their medical history and health goals.
What Will You Learn at ACHD’s Health Night Out?
During this community education event, attendees will learn more about:
What GLP-1 weight-loss medications are and how they work
Differences between newer medications and traditional weight-loss treatments
Potential benefits and considerations of these medications
How healthcare providers determine whether these treatments may be appropriate for certain patients
The event is designed to provide reliable, medically grounded information and give attendees the opportunity to ask questions.
Meet the Speaker: Dr. Alex Finck
The presentation will be led by Dr. Alex Finck, medical director of the Audrain County Health Department.
A Mexico, Missouri native, Dr. Finck returned to the area to serve his community and improve local access to healthcare. In addition to his role with ACHD, he operates Cornerstone Family Medicine, providing patient-focused care to individuals and families in Fulton and Mexico.
Event Details: Health Night Out in Mexico, Missouri
Date: Wednesday, April 29, 2026
Time: 6:00–7:00 PM
Location:
Audrain County Health Department
1130 S. Elmwood Dr.
Mexico, MO 65265
This free event is open to community members throughout Mexico, Missouri and Audrain County who want to learn more about the latest developments in weight management and metabolic health.
How to Register
To attend the event:
https://achdhealthnightout.eventbrite.com
or call 573-581-1332
Registration deadline: Friday, April 24.
Why Community Health Education Matters
As new treatments receive national attention, it’s important for residents to have access to accurate, medically informed guidance. ACHD’s Health Night Out provides an opportunity for community members to learn directly from a healthcare professional and gain a clearer understanding of emerging weight-loss treatments.
Frequently Asked Questions About GLP-1 Weight-Loss Medications
Are GLP-1 medications safe?
GLP-1 medications are FDA-approved prescription medications that must be prescribed by a healthcare provider. As with any medication, they may have potential side effects and are not appropriate for every patient.
How much weight can people lose with GLP-1 drugs?
Clinical studies have shown that some patients may lose 10–20% of their body weight when these medications are combined with healthy lifestyle changes and medical supervision.
Do you need a prescription for GLP-1 weight-loss medications?
Yes. These medications require evaluation and prescription from a licensed healthcare provider.
