According to a recent study, a significant portion of Ozempic users express skepticism about their ability to sustain weight loss after discontinuing the medication. This finding comes from an analysis conducted by weight loss management platform Levity, which surveyed 500 patients.
Only 40 percent of those using GLP-1 medication, including Ozempic, were confident that they could maintain their weight loss once they ceased treatment, highlighting a notable concern among users regarding long-term success.
However, the report also unveiled several benefits associated with GLP-1 treatments. Approximately 75 percent of individuals reported notable improvements in their physical health, while 68 percent experienced a boost in self-confidence, and 56 percent indicated enhancements in their mental well-being.
Despite these advantages, complications are also evident. Half of the participants using GLP-1 treatments reported feeling judged or shamed for relying on weight loss medications, with a striking disparity between genders—66 percent of women felt this way compared to just 32 percent of men.
Ena Cardona-Mason, a licensed family nurse practitioner from Utah, has observed that many patients are searching for miraculous weight loss solutions through Ozempic, initially intended for managing type 2 diabetes. The concerns voiced by these patients are grounded in reality; many individuals tend to regain their lost weight once they stop taking the medication.
A 2022 study found that, within a year of ceasing Ozempic, the average participant regained approximately two-thirds of their initial weight loss, a statistic that raises critical questions about long-term effectiveness.
“It’s true that Ozempic effectively aids weight loss by regulating appetite and slowing digestion,” she shared with Newsweek. “However, studies show that most individuals regain lost weight within a year without significant lifestyle changes.” Furthermore, Cardona-Mason emphasized that while Ozempic can serve as a catalyst for weight loss, maintaining that weight requires ongoing lifestyle modifications.
Benjamin Reiner, an assistant professor in the psychiatry department at the University of Pennsylvania’s Perelman School of Medicine, concurs with Cardona-Mason’s perspective. He asserts that individuals using these medications must plan meticulously for their post-treatment phase.
“If an individual loses weight but returns to the same diet and exercise patterns that initially led to their obesogenic state, they are likely to regain the weight,” Reiner cautioned, addressing the potential pitfalls following treatment cessation.
Instead of viewing Ozempic as a magical solution, Cardona-Mason advised using it in conjunction with dietary improvements and increased physical activity. She also recommended against abruptly stopping the medication, suggesting that tapering off under medical supervision is usually the best course of action.
“Weight maintenance is a lifelong journey,” she emphasized. “Address the root causes of weight gain—such as poor diet, stress, and sleep issues—and build sustainable habits. This approach will always be more effective than relying solely on medications.”
**Interview with Ena Cardona-Mason on the Challenges and Benefits of Ozempic for Weight Loss**
**Interviewer:** Welcome, Ena Cardona-Mason, a licensed family nurse practitioner from Utah. Thank you for joining us to discuss the recent findings regarding Ozempic and other GLP-1 medications.
**Ena Cardona-Mason:** Thank you for having me. It’s always important to talk about these developments in weight management.
**Interviewer:** Recent research from Levity found that only 40 percent of Ozempic users feel confident they can maintain their weight loss after stopping the medication. What do you think is behind this skepticism?
**Ena Cardona-Mason:** This skepticism is quite common among my patients. Many see Ozempic as a miracle solution for weight loss without addressing the underlying behaviors that contribute to weight gain. When these medications are discontinued, the lack of sustainable lifestyle changes can lead to weight regain, which reinforces that skepticism.
**Interviewer:** The study also highlighted some positive outcomes, with 75 percent of users reporting improvements in physical health and a significant boost in self-confidence. How do you view these benefits?
**Ena Cardona-Mason:** Absolutely, those benefits are significant and shouldn’t be overlooked. Many patients experience notable improvements in how they feel physically and mentally while on these medications. A boost in self-confidence and mental well-being can be transformative, particularly for those who have struggled with their weight for years.
**Interviewer:** However, the report indicates that half of the participants felt judged for using these medications, especially women. What impact do you think societal perceptions have on patients?
**Ena Cardona-Mason:** Stigmatization is a real issue that affects many of my patients. The pressure from society to achieve weight loss through “natural” means often leads to feelings of shame when medications are involved. This gender disparity also reflects broader societal attitudes about weight and health, placing an additional emotional burden on women who seek help.
**Interviewer:** Considering the mixed feelings about these medications, what would you recommend to someone thinking about using Ozempic?
**Ena Cardona-Mason:** I always advise patients to have an honest conversation with their healthcare provider about their goals and to consider a comprehensive weight management plan that includes medication, lifestyle changes, and behavioral health support. It’s crucial to prepare for the transition off the medication by building habits that can help maintain any progress.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Ena, for your insights on this important topic. It’s clear that while Ozempic can offer benefits, there’s much more to consider about long-term health and sustainability.
**Ena Cardona-Mason:** Thank you for having me. It’s important to facilitate open dialog on these issues as we navigate the complexities of weight management together.
