What's Happening?
A study published by The BMJ reveals that individuals who stop taking prescription weight loss medications, such as GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic, often regain weight and lose health improvements. The analysis indicates that benefits related to heart and metabolic
health diminish after discontinuation. On average, individuals regain about 0.4 kilograms per month after stopping the medication, with body weight and risk markers for diabetes and heart disease projected to return to pre-treatment levels within two years. The study underscores the need for long-term strategies beyond medication for effective weight management.
Why It's Important?
The findings raise concerns about the sustainability of weight loss achieved through GLP-1 drugs, which have become popular for obesity treatment. With a high discontinuation rate, understanding the long-term effects of stopping these medications is crucial. The study suggests that while these drugs are effective for initial weight loss, they may not be sufficient for long-term weight control. This highlights the importance of integrating healthy lifestyle practices with medication to achieve lasting health benefits.
What's Next?
The study calls for further research into cost-effective strategies for long-term weight management. It emphasizes the need for primary prevention and the integration of healthy dietary and lifestyle practices alongside medication. Healthcare providers may need to focus on educating patients about the potential for weight regain and the importance of maintaining healthy habits even after discontinuing medication.
