The use of drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy has been steadily rising as a treatment for obesity, with many patients experiencing significant weight loss. However, recent studies have shown that stopping the use of these drugs may result in a rebound weight gain. This phenomenon has raised concerns about the effectiveness and long-term sustainability of these drugs as a treatment for obesity. In this article, we explore the reasons behind this rebound effect and what it could mean for patients.
The Drugs Mimic a Gut Hormone
Both Ozempic and Wegovy mimic a hormone called GLP1, which is produced in the gut and signals to the brain when a person is full. By replicating this hormone, these drugs help people feel satisfied with smaller portions of food, leading to weight loss. However, they do not rewire neural networks to define a new body weight setpoint, which means that any weight loss may not be permanent.
Weight Gain Rebound after Stopping
Recent studies have shown that stopping the use of Ozempic or Wegovy can lead to weight gain rebound, where patients regain some or all of the weight they lost while using the drugs. The rates of weight gain vary depending on the individual, with some people gaining more weight than they initially lost. Available data suggests that most individuals will recover most of their weight within five years of stopping Wegovy, and roughly 50% of their weight after two to three years.
Why does Rebound Occur?
The exact reason for this rebound effect is not yet fully understood. It is believed that the body may compensate for the reduced caloric intake caused by these drugs by decreasing metabolism or increasing appetite after stopping them. Additionally, since these drugs do not permanently rewire neural networks to define a new body weight setpoint, patients may struggle to maintain their weight loss after stopping them.
Further Investigations and Trials Needed
Novo Nordisk, the pharmaceutical company that produces both Ozempic and Wegovy, still needs to conduct more investigations and clinical trials to understand what drives those rates of weight gain. Data indicate that weight loss is maintained with long-term use of the drugs, but the company’s data only examines use for two to three years maximum. Therefore, patients who plan on stopping the use of these drugs should do so under close medical supervision and discuss alternative options for maintaining their weight loss.
Misuse of Ozempic for Non-Medical Purposes
Ozempic was originally developed as a treatment for Type 2 diabetes, but it has recently gained popularity as a quick weight loss solution among celebrities. However, this has resulted in significant misuse of the drug for non-medical purposes, leading to complications and misrepresentations. Despite being primarily designed for chronic conditions like obesity and diabetes, the drug is being used casually by people wanting a quick fix for weight loss.
Side Effects and Complications
Ozempic has significant side effects, including vomiting and diarrhea, especially when eating anything fatty or highly caloric. There is no largescale safety data for non-medical use of Ozempic, which means that people using it casually are at risk of experiencing serious complications. Celebrities like the Kardashians have been rumored to be early adopters of Ozempic, which has exacerbated biases about body size and weight loss methods.
The Importance of Chronic Therapy for Weight Maintenance
Incretin medications like Ozempic have been effective for weight loss and treating diabetes; however, adverse gastrointestinal effects and high cost may limit treatment continuation. Furthermore, limited coverage by insurance plans leads to significant off-label use and supply shortages. A successful treatment of obesity should be personalized and may require a combination of therapies. Chronic therapy is needed for weight maintenance due to neurohormonal changes.
Conclusion:
While Ozempic and Wegovy have been effective in helping patients lose weight, the weight gain rebound observed after stopping these drugs calls for further investigation into their long-term effectiveness. Patients who plan on stopping the use of these drugs should do so under close medical supervision and discuss alternative options for maintaining their weight loss. Misuse of Ozempic as a quick weight-loss solution for non-medical purposes has resulted in serious complications, highlighting the importance of using these drugs only under medical supervision.
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