Weight Regained in Under 1.7 Years After Stopping Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro

A recent study has highlighted a significant drawback to popular weight-loss drugs like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro: users who stop taking them regain the lost weight in under 1.7 years on average.

The research, published last Wednesday in the scientific journal *The BMJ*, analysed 37 studies involving more than 9,300 participants. It found that those discontinuing the medications regained weight at a rate of about 0.4 kilograms per month. In contrast, people following conventional diet and exercise programmes took around four years to return to their starting weight.

Originally developed to treat type 2 diabetes, these drugs—known as GLP-1 receptor agonists—have surged in popularity for weight loss, fuelled by social media buzz and endorsements from celebrities. Meritxell Martí, a pharmacist at Farmàcia Meritxell, noted that they are intended for patients with type 2 diabetes, significant obesity, metabolic syndrome, or cardiovascular risks linked to excess weight. However, demand extends far beyond these groups.

"People see it as an easy, quick way to slim down without feeling hungry, which is why anyone who's a bit overweight wants it," Martí said. In Andorra, the drugs are prescribed through the CASS public health service only for type 2 diabetes treatment.

Dietitian Berta Jiménez stressed the need for professional oversight, with personalised dosing, frequency, and duration tailored to each patient. "What we dietitians promote is lasting habit change and healthy eating, which actually works," she said. "These drugs aren't a universal solution, and they're not for everyone."

Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and other gastrointestinal issues. Experts emphasise that while the medications can produce rapid results, they do not replace sustainable lifestyle changes.