4 Key Takeaways from Recent Research on Weight Loss Medications and Long-Term Results
Weight loss medications, including semaglutide (aka Ozempic and Wegovy) and tirzepatide (aka Mounjaro and Zepbound), have become increasingly popular since the FDA approved them a few years ago. These injections have aided millions of Americans in enhancing their weight loss results through improved diets and increased exercise by suppressing hunger.
Unfortunately, new weight loss research shows that many patients are gaining weight back after stopping these injections. Dr. Alexander Shapsis and his team encourage patients to consider the information provided below when starting a new weight loss regimen.
1. Study Findings on Weight Loss Medications
The study, presented by the European Congress on Obesity, followed patients who started and stopped weight loss medications. It found that patients often put back the weight they lost once they stopped treatment. Even though they lost double the amount of weight than others when utilizing the medications alongside improved diet and exercise, they often regained it back within a year of stopping medications, most within ten months.
2. Implications for Sustainable Weight Loss
This means that patients who are currently starting or considering weight loss medications need to make sustainable, long-lasting changes to their lifestyle to maintain their weight loss after stopping injections. The benefits of these medications stop immediately after they are discontinued, which means that support should be in place to both achieve weight loss goals and keep them after they make the change to a drug-free lifestyle.
Medications like this can help boost weight loss in patients with certain medical conditions aggravated by excessive weight and obesity, allowing them to lose weight in a shorter period. However, all the weight can return if patients do not pay close attention to their habits after they stop.
3. Reasons to Consider Weight Loss Drugs
Dr. Shapsis of the EndoSlim Clinic at Atlantic Gastroenterology encourages patients to be aware of both the benefits and pitfalls of these weight loss drugs. He finds that patients who are overweight or obese can benefit from their assistance during their weight loss journey, but that the lifestyle changes they make during this time should be sustainable.
Dr. Shapsis helps patients make positive changes to what they eat and how much they move, alongside their injections, and he hopes that patients heed this warning and continue to improve their lifestyle habits for the best possible long-term results.
4. Resources for Learning About Weight Loss Injections
Dr. Alexander Shapsis is a board-certified professional who monitors new weight loss research to stay abreast of conditions and concerns that his patients might face. If you are unsure about starting or stopping Wegovy or other weight loss medications, we invite you to connect with our team at the EndoSlim Clinic of Atlantic Gastroenterology in Brooklyn, New York. Call our front office at 718 521-2840 to request a consultation appointment today!
Frequently Asked Questions
Why have I gained weight?
Weight gain happens for many reasons. Hormonal changes, stress, poor sleep, medications, certain medical conditions, and genetics can all play a role. An inactive lifestyle and unhealthy eating habits also make it harder to maintain a healthy weight. For many people, weight gain is not just about willpower.
What are my weight loss options? Do they involve surgery?
There are both surgical and non-surgical weight loss options. At EndoSlim Clinic, we focus on non-surgical treatments. These include medically supervised weight loss medications, intragastric balloons, endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty (ESG), and lifestyle guidance. Surgery is rarely needed.
What is the difference between Ozempic and Wegovy?
Ozempic and Wegovy contain the same active ingredient, semaglutide. The main difference is their approved use and dosage. Ozempic is often prescribed for diabetes but offers weight management as a secondary benefit. Wegovy is FDA-approved specifically for chronic weight loss. Your physician will help decide which option is best for you depending on your health, goals, and tolerance to side effects.
What are the benefits of weight loss?
The benefits of losing weight go beyond the visible. Weight loss helps manage several weight-related conditions, including diabetes, joint pain, GI issues, and cardiovascular disease. Many patients also notice improved energy levels and better sleep, confidence, and mobility.
Can I regain weight after treatment?
Yes, weight regain is possible if you don’t maintain healthy habits. That’s why long-term support is essential. Our programs focus on building sustainable eating and lifestyle habits to help maintain results even after treatment ends. Weight management isn’t just a fad—it’s a long-term commitment to a healthy lifestyle.
How much weight can I expect to lose?
Weight loss varies for each person. Many patients lose a meaningful percentage of their body weight over time. Results depend on the treatment plan, consistency, and lifestyle changes. We will help you set realistic goals.
Are there any potential side effects of the weight loss medications?
Common side effects include gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, bloating, vomiting, constipation, or changes in appetite. These effects are often temporary and improve as the body adjusts. We will monitor you closely and adjust treatment if needed. Medical oversight is among the reasons you should consider weight management with a medical weight-loss specialist like Dr. Alexander Shapsis.
Does insurance cover the cost of weight loss management?
Insurance coverage varies by plan. Some plans may cover part of weight loss treatment, while others may not. We’ll review your coverage and outline the benefits before treatment begins. We are also excited to provide alternative payment plans, including financing and self-pay programs.
How much does medically supervised weight loss cost in Brooklyn, NY?
Costs depend on the type of treatment and the length of the program. We’ll discuss pricing during your consultation so you know what to expect. EndoSlim Clinic provides transparent and upfront costing, and you can ask as many questions before we proceed.
What makes EndoSlim Clinic unique?
Located in Brooklyn, NY, EndoSlim Clinic is excited to be recognized as the leading non-surgical weight-loss provider in the Tristate (NY, NJ, and CT). Under the leadership of our board-certified gastroenterologist, Dr. Alexander Shapsis, we have successfully transformed the lives of over 2,000 patients. Call 877-749-3633 or schedule a virtual consultation to get started.
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