Weight-loss drugs like Ozempic fail without lifelong commitment, studies reveal

Weight-loss drugs like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro help users shed pounds, but their effects often fade once treatment stops. New research shows that many patients regain weight quickly after discontinuing these medications. Experts now warn that long-term use may be necessary to maintain results.

A study found that patients who stopped taking newer drugs such as semaglutide or tirzepatide regained weight at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month. Those stopping older weight-loss medications regained around 0.4 kg per month. In comparison, people who left behavioral weight management programs without drugs saw a slower regain of 0.2 kg per month.

The return of lost weight can bring back health risks, including cardiovascular disease. Older patients face additional dangers, as weight loss from these drugs may also reduce lean muscle mass, raising the risk of falls and frailty. Researchers, including Jennifer Lake from the University of Toronto, highlight that GLP-1 drugs work best when combined with diet and exercise. However, they stress that medication alone is not a complete solution. The broader issue of obesity, driven by unhealthy food environments, still needs addressing to tackle the epidemic effectively. Experts now suggest that weight-loss drugs may require lifelong use to keep the weight off permanently.

The findings indicate that stopping weight-loss medications often leads to rapid weight regain. Without long-term treatment, the benefits of these drugs diminish, and associated health risks can return. Addressing obesity may require both sustained medication and changes to diet and lifestyle.