Ozempic and Wegovy are on everyone's lips as the "magic wand" for losing weight. But for some, this magic doesn't seem to work. Despite weekly injections and the hopes placed on these innovative drugs, the scale refuses to budge. There are 5 main reasons why Ozempic and Wegovy may not give the desired results, and this must make us reflect on the need to "calibrate" the use of drugs of this kind well, which are often very expensive (regardless of production costs).
1 – Lifestyle changes: the missing piece
This is an often overlooked fact. THE clinical trials on semagglutide (the active ingredient of Ozempic and Wegovy) also included lifestyle interventions: both for the group treated with the drug and for the placebo group. To get the best response to these drugs patients should follow the six pillars of Lifestyle Medicine: plant-based diet, regular exercise, stress management, no narcotics, maintaining strong social relationships with family and friends.
Especially regarding regular exercise, it is good to say that efforts must be increased. Yes, because a 2023 study confirms that the loss of weight also corresponds to the loss of muscle mass.
Advice that may seem obvious, but is essential for anyone. Even for those who aren't trying to lose weight. And they can hinder the effectiveness of anti-obesity drugs if left untreated.
2 – The importance of following the prescriptions
Taking the correct dosage regularly is essential for the success of the treatment. As Dr. explains Joshua Quinones, a board-certified internist, if the medication is not taken as prescribed, such as skipping doses or not following instructions on timing and dosage, it may not work effectively.
The reasons behind this problem vary: from lack of education on how to take the drug to simple forgetfulness. Again: at the moment the use of Ozempic or Wegovy risks becoming "chronic": a 2022 study indicated that people regain two-thirds of their weight within a year of stopping weekly doses of 2,4 mg of semaglutide. AND a Reuters report says that many, over two thirds of patients, stop taking these drugs a year after starting to take them.
It must be hired for life, tell me? And with what long-term effects?
3 – Undiagnosed medical problems
Another reason some patients may not respond to Ozempic or Wegovy is if they have undiagnosed or inadequately treated medical issues. Certain conditions such as hypothyroidism, sleep apnea, chronic insomnia, to name just a few, can interfere with weight loss efforts and should be treated before starting a weight loss medication.
Additionally, the patient may be suffering from an undiagnosed eating disorder. In some cases, GLP-1 medications can correct binge eating disorder, but not always.
4 – Insulin resistance: an uphill battle
Ozempic, you know, was originally developed to treat type 2 diabetes and help patients reduce glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c). However, research indicates that people with diabetes may lose less weight with GLP-1 drugs.
When a metabolic disease is already present it becomes more difficult to reverse these abnormalities, especially if they have been present for a long time. The answer is physiological: in patients with type 2 diabetes, the body's ability to respond to GLP-1 and stimulate insulin secretion is reduced.
5 – Ozempic and Wegovy, interference with other drugs
Concurrently taking Ozempic or Wegovy with other medications may also reduce weight loss. Some medicines, such as certain antidepressants and beta-blockers, can promote weight gain by counteracting the effect of GLP-1 drugs.
Always talk to your doctors about other medications you are taking before starting GLP-1 treatment, and if you are not experiencing weight loss.
What to do if you don't lose weight with Ozempic or Wegovy
If after 12 weeks of treatment you do not notice results on the scales, or if you have doubts, experts recommend talking openly with your doctor. It may be necessary to change the dosage, explore alternative treatments or address other underlying health issues.
Furthermore, it may be useful to review your lifestyle: Are you making the necessary changes, such as stopping eating when you're full, choosing whole, unprocessed foods, cooking your own meals instead of ordering takeout, drinking enough water, sleeping 7-8 hours a night, and exercising consistently?
Manage the side effects, such as nausea and gastrointestinal problems, it can help you adhere to treatment. Helpful tips include eating small, frequent meals, avoiding fatty foods that stay in your stomach longer, and talking to your doctor about medications (over-the-counter or prescription) that may relieve these symptoms.
In conclusion, it should always be underlined: Ozempic and Wegovy represent a turning point in the treatment of obesity, but they are not a "magic" solution. And they're not for everyone.
Lifestyle changes, treatment adherence, concomitant medical problems and pharmacological interferences may influence the response to these medicines. Working closely with your doctor, monitoring your progress and addressing any obstacles is essential to maximizing the benefits of these innovative medications and achieving your weight loss goals in a healthy and lasting way.
