Landmark Study Reveals Weight Loss Jabs are Not a Quick Fix for Obesity
A new study published in the BMJ has found that individuals who stop taking weight loss medications, known as GLP-1 agonists, regain an average of 4.8kg within just one year and return to their original weight within 1.7 years after treatment has ended.
Conducted by researchers at the University of Oxford, the study analyzed data from over 9,300 participants across 37 existing studies, with a total duration of 39 weeks for treatment and 32 weeks of follow-up. The findings show that weight loss medications can achieve impressive results, but this rapid regaining of weight after stopping treatment is significantly faster than those using behavioral programs.
According to Dr Sam West, lead researcher, the high rate of weight regain "reflects the nature of obesity as a chronic, relapsing condition." He emphasized that these medicines are not a quick fix and can achieve significant weight loss but require long-term management with comprehensive support. This includes adopting healthier diets and increased physical activity.
The study highlights the importance of primary prevention over short-term treatment with these medications. Dr Faye Riley from Diabetes UK noted, "Weight loss drugs can be effective tools for managing weight and type 2 diabetes risk – but they are not a quick fix." The NHS has taken note, stressing that these treatments must be paired with behavioral support to achieve long-term weight management.
The study also found benefits on cardio-metabolic health markers such as blood pressure and cholesterol levels returning to their original state within 1.4 years of stopping treatment. However, this underscores the need for sustained support beyond just medication.
The Obesity Health Alliance's Katharine Jenner pointed out that regaining weight after stopping treatment is not a failure of individuals but rather "reflects the reality of living in a food environment that continually pushes people towards unhealthy options."
As the study emphasizes the importance of long-term support and comprehensive management, health experts emphasize the need for innovative solutions to address obesity's complex nature.
A new study published in the BMJ has found that individuals who stop taking weight loss medications, known as GLP-1 agonists, regain an average of 4.8kg within just one year and return to their original weight within 1.7 years after treatment has ended.
Conducted by researchers at the University of Oxford, the study analyzed data from over 9,300 participants across 37 existing studies, with a total duration of 39 weeks for treatment and 32 weeks of follow-up. The findings show that weight loss medications can achieve impressive results, but this rapid regaining of weight after stopping treatment is significantly faster than those using behavioral programs.
According to Dr Sam West, lead researcher, the high rate of weight regain "reflects the nature of obesity as a chronic, relapsing condition." He emphasized that these medicines are not a quick fix and can achieve significant weight loss but require long-term management with comprehensive support. This includes adopting healthier diets and increased physical activity.
The study highlights the importance of primary prevention over short-term treatment with these medications. Dr Faye Riley from Diabetes UK noted, "Weight loss drugs can be effective tools for managing weight and type 2 diabetes risk – but they are not a quick fix." The NHS has taken note, stressing that these treatments must be paired with behavioral support to achieve long-term weight management.
The study also found benefits on cardio-metabolic health markers such as blood pressure and cholesterol levels returning to their original state within 1.4 years of stopping treatment. However, this underscores the need for sustained support beyond just medication.
The Obesity Health Alliance's Katharine Jenner pointed out that regaining weight after stopping treatment is not a failure of individuals but rather "reflects the reality of living in a food environment that continually pushes people towards unhealthy options."
As the study emphasizes the importance of long-term support and comprehensive management, health experts emphasize the need for innovative solutions to address obesity's complex nature.
Obesity is a complex issue that requires a holistic approach, not just a quick fix medication. As Aristotle said, "We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit." We need to cultivate healthy habits and make sustainable lifestyle changes to manage obesity effectively. 
, not just take meds forever. Dr Sam West said it best tho - these meds can be super effective but we need long-term management 
, like, let's get back to basics and get moving 
. We can't just rely on meds alone, that's why this study is so important - it highlights the need for a holistic approach 
. I don’t usually comment but I think we should be supporting initiatives that promote education and community programs to help people make healthier choices 
.
Those GLP-1 agonists can help u lose 4.8kg in a year, but if u stop, u're back up to ur original weight in like 1.7 years 
. It's not a quick fix, it's more like... well, it's just the way it is 
. We need more than just meds, we need sustainable habits 
and support 
. Anyways, 
to the study for keepin' it real about obesity 
I mean come on, 4.8kg in just one year? That's not exactly what I'd call a 'quick fix' 
... it's more like a 'temporary band-aid' 
. We can't keep relying on medication as the sole answer - our bodies are constantly being manipulated, it's like we're playing a never-ending game of 'weight loss whack-a-mole' 
.
... I mean, they're not as magical as we thought 
. The new study shows that people can actually regain a lot of weight when they stop taking these meds 
. Like, 4.8kg in just one year?! That's crazy 
. And it's not just the weight loss itself, but also the fact that most people will just go back to their old habits and start eating unhealthy stuff all over again 
. And honestly, I'm a bit frustrated that we're still struggling with obesity 
. Can't we just figure out a way to make healthy living a little easier? 
. It's like their body just says "okay, we got this for a bit, now let's get back to our old ways" 
.
. You gotta put in the work and stick to it, whether that means healthy eating or regular exercise 
. And yeah, it's way harder than just taking a pill, but trust me, I've been there 
. The NHS is onto something with pairing meds with behavioral support – that's the key 
.
. And let's be real, the food environment can be super tough 
? Maybe we need to rethink our whole approach to weight loss... I dunno, maybe more emphasis on self-care or mindfulness or something? 
. The researchers said it's because obesity is a chronic condition 
. I feel for those people trying to stick to a healthy diet and exercise routine 
. And the NHS is like, "yeah okay" 
. This study is a reminder that we gotta think bigger 
I've seen friends and family members try them out and while they do lose some serious weight initially, the moment they stop taking them... poof! The weight comes right back. It's like their bodies just go "screw it" 
It's all about balance, you know? Eating healthy, moving regularly... it's not that hard. 
i mean whats wrong w/ me just bein realistic? we all know our diets & lifestyles gotta change 2, not just pop some pills & expect magic 
. We've been told weight loss meds are a quick fix, but now it's clear they're not 
.
. and what about the people who can't afford these meds or don't have access to healthcare support? that's some major inequality going on 
. we need more research on sustainable solutions, like policy changes and community programs, that can actually make a dent in obesity rates 
.
.