Merry Christmas!
One in six Americans taking weight-loss and diabetes drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy are skipping their shots so they can indulge in Christmas cookies and sides like mac and cheese and mashed potatoes, a new study from Levity finds .
The problem is that temporarily stopping drug use can lead to weight gain, mood swings, and digestive problems, among other possible short- and long-term side effects.
An overwhelming 79% of people who said they plan to skip drinking over the holidays admitted it’s so they can enjoy holiday foods more.
Half said they wanted to avoid the side effects of eating foods rich in GLP-1 drugs – which can include satiety, nausea and other gastrointestinal discomfort – while 28% said they wanted to take a break from their daily routines .
Less than a quarter said it was because of medication costs or concerns about interactions with alcohol.
While skipping a dose or two can allow more room to indulge, it can also lead to some unwanted complications.
“Taking a break from weight loss medication during the holidays may seem like a small decision, but it can have lasting effects,” explained Dr. survey of 1,000 US and UK residents.
“Many people experience weight gain and an increase in cravings when they suddenly stop. This can lead to a frustrating cycle of weight loss and regain,” continued Hyatt. “That’s why planning ahead and getting advice from a health care professional is so important.”
A recent KFF Health Tracking Survey found that 12% of US adults have taken a drug similar to Ozempic at some point, and 6% were using it as of May.
These drugs suppress appetite and promote weight loss by mimicking GLP-1, the hormone the body naturally produces after eating, so users feel fuller for longer.
Some 24% of Levity respondents anticipate gaining more than 5 pounds over the holidays because they ditched their weekly kick—and 63% of those planning to take a vacation admit they haven’t consulted their doctor.
A recent report found that most people taking GLP-1 drugs do not stay on their prescribed treatment for at least 12 weeks. More than 30% of patients drop out after just four weeks because they suffer from early side effects like nausea or other digestive problems — or can’t afford to continue.
In Levity’s survey, 42% of US GLP-1 users admitted to not taking their medication during social events such as vacations and dining out with friends and family.
Nearly one in three Americans (32%) have struggled to resume their GLP-1 routine, with men reporting more difficulty than women.
“If you’ve taken a break from weight-loss medications, it’s important to bring them back carefully,” Hyatt said.
“Work with your doctor to create a plan that gradually reintroduces treatment while minimizing any side effects,” she added. “Eating well-balanced meals and regular exercise can make the process smoother and help you stay on track.”
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