As obesity rates continue to affect roughly 40% or more of the U.S. population, medications known as glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) agonists have surged in popularity, widely viewed as breakthrough treatments for weight loss. Drugs such as Ozempic and Wegovy have helped many patients achieve dramatic reductions in weight, fueling optimism among doctors and patients alike.
However, health experts caution that these medications are not a permanent fix on their own.
KOAT health expert Abinash Achrekar, M.D., commonly known as Dr. Ash, points to emerging research showing that weight regain can occur rapidly once patients stop taking GLP-1 medications—often faster than with traditional diet and exercise alone.
“People can lose a lot of weight from these shots, but studies show that when the medication is stopped, the weight can come back quickly,” Dr. Ash said. “On average, patients may regain about two pounds per month.”
The reason lies in how GLP-1 drugs function. The medications mimic a naturally occurring hormone that signals fullness, suppressing appetite while the drug is active. Over time, however, the body may reduce its own production of that hormone.
“While taking the medication, people feel less hungry,” Dr. Ash explained. “But if it’s used long-term, the body may rely on the drug for that ‘I’m full’ signal. When the medication stops, hunger can return suddenly and intensely.”
Despite this challenge, experts say sustained weight loss is achievable with preparation and lifestyle changes. The key, according to Dr. Ash, is building healthy habits before discontinuing the medication.
“The best approach is to start practicing healthy eating and regular physical activity while still on the medication,” he said. “Doctors recommend using these drugs alongside lifestyle changes. If someone relies only on the shot, their habits don’t change, and the weight is far more likely to return.”
With a structured plan developed alongside a healthcare provider, GLP-1 medications can play a meaningful role in reducing excess weight and lowering the risk of related health conditions.
“These medicines can be helpful tools,” Dr. Ash said, “but they’re not magic. Without long-term changes in diet and movement, the body will work hard to regain the weight.”
