Taking a weight loss drug based on glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) such as Ozempic successfully helped an individual lose up to 20% of their weight without having to exercise. Ozempic's popularity skyrocketed after many celebrities who were once fat now look slim. A recent study by Oxford University found that if an individual stopped taking GLP-1, their weight would return to its original weight within 1.5 to 2 years.
The conclusion was drawn after collecting data from 37 clinical studies involving 9341 adults. On average, weight would increase by 0.4 kg before and after individuals stopped taking Ozempic. In addition to weight, cardiometabolic markers (including HbA1c, fasting glucose, cholesterol, triglycerides and blood pressure) also returned to their pre-GLP-1 levels.
This reinforces the hypothesis that taking GLP-1 alone to reduce obesity issues is not enough. Lifestyle changes including diet and consistent exercise are necessary to lose weight. Some individuals have stopped taking GLP-1 due to its increasing cost and side effects such as diarrhea and nausea.
GLP-1 was originally developed for type 2 diabetes patients. But it has also been found to be effective in weight loss and treating addiction.
