Weight Loss with Ozempic: The Dark Side of Stopping Treatment
A new study published in The BMJ has shed light on the challenges of maintaining weight loss after stopping GLP-1 therapy, commonly prescribed for obesity. The research found that patients who discontinue treatment experience a rapid and significant regain of weight, outpacing even those who relied solely on behavioral weight management programs.
Conducted by researchers at the University of Oxford, the study analyzed data from nearly 10,000 participants across 37 studies, examining how weight loss was maintained or regained after stopping obesity medication. The results show that individuals who stopped taking GLP-1 therapy saw their weight return at an average rate of almost one pound per month, with those on newer drugs like semaglutide and tirzepatide losing even more quickly.
This regaining of weight is not only a concern for individuals struggling with obesity but also has implications for the broader healthcare system. The study's findings suggest that GLP-1 medications may need to be used long-term, potentially even for life, to maintain weight loss.
While some patients may be able to maintain their weight loss after stopping treatment, the high rate of relapse is likely due to the chronic nature of obesity as a condition. As one researcher noted, "This isn't a failing of the medicines – it reflects the nature of obesity as a chronic, relapsing condition."
The study's authors emphasize that more needs to be done to support individuals who are unable or unwilling to stay on these medications long-term. With roughly 50% of patients discontinuing treatment within a year due to factors such as high cost or side effects, alternative solutions and support systems must be developed to help those struggling with weight loss maintain their progress.
Ultimately, the findings highlight the need for a more comprehensive approach to obesity treatment that takes into account the complexities of chronic conditions. As the healthcare system continues to evolve, it is essential to prioritize evidence-based treatments like GLP-1 therapy and provide support systems to ensure long-term success in managing obesity.
A new study published in The BMJ has shed light on the challenges of maintaining weight loss after stopping GLP-1 therapy, commonly prescribed for obesity. The research found that patients who discontinue treatment experience a rapid and significant regain of weight, outpacing even those who relied solely on behavioral weight management programs.
Conducted by researchers at the University of Oxford, the study analyzed data from nearly 10,000 participants across 37 studies, examining how weight loss was maintained or regained after stopping obesity medication. The results show that individuals who stopped taking GLP-1 therapy saw their weight return at an average rate of almost one pound per month, with those on newer drugs like semaglutide and tirzepatide losing even more quickly.
This regaining of weight is not only a concern for individuals struggling with obesity but also has implications for the broader healthcare system. The study's findings suggest that GLP-1 medications may need to be used long-term, potentially even for life, to maintain weight loss.
While some patients may be able to maintain their weight loss after stopping treatment, the high rate of relapse is likely due to the chronic nature of obesity as a condition. As one researcher noted, "This isn't a failing of the medicines – it reflects the nature of obesity as a chronic, relapsing condition."
The study's authors emphasize that more needs to be done to support individuals who are unable or unwilling to stay on these medications long-term. With roughly 50% of patients discontinuing treatment within a year due to factors such as high cost or side effects, alternative solutions and support systems must be developed to help those struggling with weight loss maintain their progress.
Ultimately, the findings highlight the need for a more comprehensive approach to obesity treatment that takes into account the complexities of chronic conditions. As the healthcare system continues to evolve, it is essential to prioritize evidence-based treatments like GLP-1 therapy and provide support systems to ensure long-term success in managing obesity.
! I'm literally freaking out right now!!! The new study on Ozempic and weight loss is SO important!!! 
If patients can't even maintain their weight loss after stopping treatment, what's the point of even trying? 
It's like they're stuck in this vicious cycle of gaining weight back and it's just so frustrating! 
I know I'm gonna start using Ozempic ASAP (just kidding, kinda 
) But seriously, the fact that 50% of patients discontinue treatment due to high cost or side effects is insane 
Let's get behind this cause and raise awareness about the importance of comprehensive obesity treatment!!! 
#OzempicAwareness #WeightLossMatters
. It's just another example of how easy it is to gain weight back once you stop trying. I mean, think about it, if the body isn't challenged to keep losing weight, it just goes back to normal mode. And let's be real, obesity is a chronic condition that's hard to shake off. It's not like some magic pill or therapy will make all the difference in the long run 
. We need more support systems and better alternatives, but it'll never be easy, right?
It's not something you can just "snap out" of. We need more support systems in place for people who are struggling to stay on meds long-term. Like, what's the alternative? Just cut them off and expect everything to magically fix itself? 
. We need better support systems and access to these meds for people who really need them 
.
almost 1lb/month 
chronic nature of obesity is hard to beat 
what's the solution tho? more support systems needed i guess 
Those stats are crazy, almost 1 lb/month? No wonder people get frustrated and give up. The doc needs to take a closer look at patients' progress and adjust treatment plans accordingly. Maybe a combo therapy with lifestyle changes would be more effective in the long run. And honestly, I think we need more research on alternative solutions to help folks stay on meds. It's not that hard, just saying 