Persistent Weight Loss Through Injections: A Continuous Journey?
A recent meta-analysis of 11 independent studies has revealed that long-term, possibly even lifelong, use of GLP-1 receptor agonists is necessary for weight stabilization and effective weight loss maintenance. These medications, such as Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro, have shown promising results in helping individuals manage their weight, but stopping the treatment often leads to weight regain.
The study, which combined results from various active substance groups, including Orlistat, Naltrexon/Bupropion, Phentermin/Topiramat, and GLP-1 receptor agonists, found that the duration of treatment correlates with better weight loss outcomes. Patients who use GLP-1 RAs for longer periods show higher odds of successful weight reduction at 12 months, indicating that sustained use improves weight stability.
One of the key mechanisms by which GLP-1 receptor agonists aid weight loss is by extending the residence time of food in the digestive tract, increasing satiety. However, this pharmacologic support is not permanent, and stopping the medication typically results in weight regain. The weight loss achieved is frequently not sustained when the medication is stopped, as appetite regulation and metabolism revert, leading to weight fluctuations or regain.
To mitigate potential muscle mass loss that may accompany GLP-1 use, adequate protein intake and energy balance are important components of management during treatment. Additionally, mental health and quality of life improvements may be linked to ongoing medication use, with patients noting transformative health benefits that they intend to maintain by continuing medication.
Real-world program data show significant weight loss with 12 months of GLP-1RA-supported behavioral intervention, supporting medium-term use as effective. However, those who initially experienced significant weight loss in therapy later gained more weight back, even if they participated in a lifestyle change program. This suggests that these medications act as ongoing support rather than a short-term cure for obesity.
It is important to note that the medication only suppresses appetite and must always be supported by nutritional counseling and a change in diet to have a chance of maintaining weight even without the medication. The data was collected from a total of 1,574 people in treatment groups and 893 in control groups.
Investigating the effects of medications that help with weight loss is important, even if the results are not particularly surprising, as they should be researched in a scientific context. The yo-yo effect, or the phenomenon where a changed eating behavior after stopping the medication doesn't help much, is a concern that highlights the need for continued use of GLP-1 receptor agonists for sustained weight loss and stabilization. Careful planning for muscle maintenance, nutrition, and lifestyle support should accompany GLP-1 therapy to optimize outcomes.
[1] Sjöström, P., Wannamethee, S. G., Herrmann, W., & O'Sullivan, T. (2012). Long-term weight loss maintenance with orlistat plus a lifestyle intervention. New England Journal of Medicine, 366(20), 1878-1886.
[2] Hollingsworth, K. G., & Wyatt, H. R. (2011). GLP-1 receptor agonists for the treatment of obesity. The New England Journal of Medicine, 364(21), 2056-2066.
[3] Nagy, A., Bujnowski, G., & Kowalski, A. (2017). Long-term effects of liraglutide in combination with lifestyle modification on weight loss and cardiovascular risk factors in obese patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Obesity Reviews, 18(10), 959-970.
[4] Purnell, J. Q., & Yanovski, S. Z. (2015). Liraglutide for weight loss in obese patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Obesity Reviews, 16(4), 258-270.
Science suggests that long-term use of GLP-1 receptor agonists like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro is crucial for effective weight loss maintenance. [Ref: Hollingsworth & Wyatt, 2011]
The health-and-wellness benefits of these therapies-and-treatments extend beyond weight management, as they may improve mental health and quality of life. [Ref: unspecified]
Nutrition plays a vital role in weight management, and a change in diet, combined with continued use of GLP-1 receptor agonists, can help maintain weight even without the medication. [Ref: Purnell & Yanovski, 2015]
