Author: BalanceGenics Anti-aging Research Team (How100.com)
1. Latest Study Finds Discontinuation of GLP-1 May Result in 67% Weight Regain!
Obesity has become an increasingly serious public health issue worldwide, with the World Health Organization estimating that over one billion people are currently affected by obesity. In United States，According to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) , in 2022, 22 states had an adult obesity rate of 35% or higher. In response to this challenge, the medical community is committed to developing various treatment methods, one of which involves drugs based on glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists.
Growing evidence suggests that drugs such as Wegovy and Ozempic, which simulate insulin secretion, can significantly reduce patients' weight by suppressing appetite and reducing food intake. However, the implementation of these treatments is not always straightforward, as many individuals have to discontinue their use due to side effects, economic burdens, insurance coverage issues, or drug shortages.
McKenzie Prillaman discussed the potential issues that may arise after discontinuing these drugs in an article published in Nature titled "Obesity drugs aren’t always forever. What happens when you quit?" This research, published in a prestigious journal, provides important insights into current and future strategies for managing obesity treatment through analysis of historical data, clinical trials, and real-world scenarios. The article offers valuable guidance for physicians, patients, healthcare professionals, and health policy makers through scientific insights and recommendations for current obesity health policies.
2. Experimental Strategy:
Researchers analyzed information collected from data provided by drug manufacturers, clinical trial results, and observational study reports to understand the experiences of patients after discontinuing the drugs. In one trial, 800 participants experienced an average weight loss of 10.6% within four months of using semaglutide, and then one-third of them were switched to a placebo group, resulting in almost 7% weight regain over the following 11 months.
3. Research Findings:
The study reveals the weight and health issues individuals encounter after discontinuing these drugs. Most individuals experience weight regain after discontinuation, accompanied by deterioration in health indicators such as blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol levels, although some indicators remain better compared to participants who have never used these drugs. Approximately 44% of patients who discontinued semaglutide experienced weight rebound of at least one-fourth within a year. Some study participants maintained their weight loss by adopting improved dietary and exercise habits after using semaglutide.
4. Clinical Significance:
Due to the significant weight rebound after discontinuation, physicians and researchers are considering long-term use of GLP-1 receptor agonists. Other pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatment options, such as orlistat for reducing fat absorption or gastric bypass surgery, may be considered when GLP-1 receptor agonists are no longer viable.
5. Key Conclusions:
When patients discontinue GLP-1 receptor agonists such as Wegovy and Ozempic due to various reasons (including side effects, economic burden, and limited health insurance coverage), their short-term achievements in weight loss are likely to be compromised. Weight rebound and the recurrence of related health issues after discontinuing semaglutide are significant concerns, highlighting the need to address not only the treatment process itself but also its aftermath. The study provides valuable insights and data for future obesity treatment and management strategies, especially regarding the sustainability and feasibility of long-term treatment.
6. Discussion Summary:
The ubiquity and severity of weight rebound after discontinuation highlight the challenges of obesity treatment, emphasizing the importance of maintaining weight loss rather than just achieving it. The article suggests alternative treatment strategies such as dietary adjustments, increased exercise, psychological counseling, and other pharmacological or surgical options for patients who cannot use GLP-1 receptor agonists long-term. Gradual dose reduction is recommended for individuals who have to discontinue treatment to mitigate potential hunger rebound and other physiological responses.
Here are some advices from Balancegenics：
- Dietary Adjustments:
- Meal Planning: Plan balanced meals that include a variety of nutrient-rich foods from all food groups: fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
- Portion Control: Use smaller plates and bowls to control portion sizes. Aim to fill half of your plate with vegetables, one-quarter with lean protein, and one-quarter with whole grains or starchy vegetables.
- Healthy Snacking: Opt for nutritious snacks such as fruits, vegetables with hummus, Greek yogurt, nuts, or whole grain crackers with cheese. Avoid sugary snacks and processed foods.
- Hydration: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated and help regulate appetite. Limit sugary beverages and opt for water, herbal tea, or infused water instead.
- Mindful Eating: Practice mindful eating by paying attention to hunger and fullness cues, eating slowly, and savoring each bite. Avoid distractions like TV or screens while eating.
7. Exercise Recommendations:
- Cardiovascular Exercise: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise per week, such as brisk walking, cycling, swimming, or dancing. Break it down into smaller sessions if needed.
- Strength Training: Incorporate strength training exercises at least two days a week, targeting major muscle groups. This can include bodyweight exercises, resistance band workouts, or weightlifting.
- Physical Activity Throughout the Day: Stay active throughout the day by taking short walks, using stairs instead of elevators, or doing household chores. Aim to minimize sedentary behavior.
8. Tapering Off Medication:
- Gradual Reduction: Work with your healthcare provider to develop a tapering schedule that gradually reduces the dosage of the GLP-1 medication over time. This can help minimize withdrawal symptoms and prevent rapid weight regain.
- Monitoring: Monitor your physical and emotional responses during the tapering process. Keep track of any changes in appetite, energy levels, mood, or other symptoms, and communicate them with your healthcare provider.
9. Seeking Professional Guidance:
Consider consulting with a registered dietitian or nutritionist for personalized dietary guidance and meal planning tailored to your individual needs and preferences.
Remember to listen to your body and adjust your diet and exercise plan as needed. Consistency and gradual progress are key to long-term success in weight management and overall health.
10. BalanceGenics 15 Days Gut Cleanse - Eat Without Stress
Struggling with constipation, bloating, or bad breath? BalanceGenics 15-Day Gut Cleanse is here to help you tackle these issues and rejuvenate your body.
- 【Natural Ingredient Formula】: Carefully selected 8 natural plant ingredients, gentle and effective, safe with no side effects.
- 【Efficient Colon Cleanse and Detox】: Senna Leaf and Cascara Sagrada Bark work together to quickly relieve constipation and eliminate toxins.
- 【Promotes Digestive Health】: Psyllium Husk Powder and Flaxseed Powder absorb intestinal waste, lubricate the intestines, and improve digestive function.
- 【Repairs Intestinal Mucosa】: Aloe Vera Leaf Gel and Lactobacillus Acidophilus repair damaged intestinal
mucosa and enhance intestinal immunity.
- 【Gentle and Natural】--- Formulated with natural ingredients to support your body's natural metabolism process.
- 【GENTLE& HEALTHY】 --- The item is a quick, gentle feature, that will make your colon easy and healthy.
- 【Quick Results】--- Experience the cleansing effects within 12-24 hours of taking the first pill, promoting regular bowel movements and a healthier gut.
- 【Easy-to-Follow Regimen】--- Simply start with one pill and increase to two if needed, taking daily for up to 15 days. Allow your gut to rest for 6-8 weeks before repeating the product.
- 【MULTI-PURPOSE】--- Ideal for those people suffering from constipation and bloating or those seeking to cleanse the bowel and colon.
BalanceGenics: Personalized One-Stop Anti-aging Platform (How100.com)
Launched in California in 2018, BalanceGenics ("How100") started out as a solution to our own needs. Our team consists of seasoned health experts, doctors, and entrepreneurs with a common interest in anti-aging.
We use the latest findings from global leading longevity scientists to develop products and services.
BalanceGenics' Mission is to create personalized solutions to live longer but stay younger.
We will be your personalized one-stop anti-aging platform and help you stay younger for longer.
11. References:
Prillaman, McKenzie. “Obesity Drugs Aren’t Always Forever. What Happens When You Quit?” Nature, vol. 628, no. 8008, 16 Apr. 2024, pp. 488–490, www.nature.com/articles/d41586-024-01091-8, https://doi.org/10.1038/d41586-024-01091-8. Accessed 24 Apr. 2024.
