Weight Loss Injections: Quick Fix or Long-Term Solution?

16 Mar

In the ever-evolving world of weight loss, weight loss injections like Mounjaro, Ozempic, and Wegovy have become a go-to option for many people seeking quick results.

However, while these treatments offer the promise of fast weight loss, they raise important questions about their long-term effectiveness and sustainability.

In this blog, we’ll explore the pros and cons of these injections, the research behind their effectiveness, and why a personalised weight loss plan might be the key to long-lasting results.

The Appeal of Quick Weight Loss Results

Weight loss injections are often chosen for their ability to deliver quicker results compared to traditional methods like diet and exercise.

While the promise of rapid weight loss is tempting, it raises important questions about the long-term sustainability of these treatments.

Are they a lasting solution, or merely a temporary fix? Read more about quick-fix diets here.

What Are Weight Loss Injections?

Weight loss injections are prescription medications designed to aid weight management by regulating appetite and metabolism. There are several types available, including:

Wegovy and Ozempic (semaglutide)
Saxenda (liraglutide)
Mounjaro (tirzepatide)

Weight loss injections primarily work by mimicking hormones that regulate appetite, slowing down digestion, and promoting a feeling of fullness.

They help individuals consume fewer calories without feeling excessively hungry, thereby facilitating weight loss over time.

These injections can be highly effective, but do they provide a long-term solution?

The Different Types of Weight Loss Injections

Mounjaro, Saxenda, Ozempic, and Wegovy all aid in weight loss, but they work in different ways, target different hormones, and belong to different generations of weight loss medications.

Ozempic (Semaglutide) – Originally developed for diabetes, Ozempic mimics the GLP-1 hormone, which helps lower blood sugar, slow digestion, and reduce hunger. It’s a second-generation GLP-1 agonist and is taken once a week.

Wegovy (Semaglutide) – Wegovy contains the same active ingredient as Ozempic but at a higher dose, making it more effective for weight loss. It works in the same way but is specifically designed for people with a higher BMI. It is also taken weekly.

Saxenda (Liraglutide) – Unlike Ozempic and Wegovy, Saxenda has a shorter effect, so it needs to be taken daily. It helps with weight loss by slowing digestion, increasing feelings of fullness, and reducing cravings. It is typically prescribed for people with a BMI of 30 or more or those with weight-related health conditions.

Mounjaro (Tirzepatide) – This newer medication works differently by targeting two hormones, GLP-1 and GIP. This dual action helps regulate appetite while also improving blood sugar control, making it particularly beneficial for people with type 2 diabetes. It belongs to the next generation of weight loss medications and offers broader metabolic benefits.

In summary, Mounjaro, Saxenda, Ozempic, and Wegovy all aid weight loss but differ in how they work, with Saxenda requiring daily doses, Ozempic and Wegovy using the same ingredient at different strengths weekly, and Mounjaro targeting two hormones for added metabolic benefits.

Research and Effectiveness of Weight Loss Injections

Clinical trials have studied several weight loss injections, showing varying degrees of effectiveness. Here’s a quick overview of the research:

Wegovy and Ozempic (Semaglutide) – Studies on semaglutide 2.4 mg (Wegovy) have shown that it can support an average weight loss of 16% after one year [1].

Saxenda (Liraglutide) – Research indicates that liraglutide supports an average weight loss of 5-7% after one year [2]. While its effect on weight loss is more modest than newer medications, Saxenda is also prescribed for people with type 2 diabetes, as it has been shown to significantly improve blood sugar control.

Mounjaro (Tirzepatide) – Clinical studies have shown that tirzepatide can lead to an average weight loss of around 25% after one year, with results maintained for at least 20 months when treatment continues [3].

These findings highlight that while weight loss injections can be highly effective, their long-term success depends on ongoing treatment and lifestyle changes.

Potential Benefits of Weight Loss Injections

Appetite Control: These medications help suppress hunger, making it easier to manage portion sizes and avoid overeating.

Blood Sugar Management: Injections like Mounjaro offer significant benefits for people with type 2 diabetes as they regulate blood sugar levels while promoting weight loss.

Reduced Risk of Obesity-Related Diseases: Weight loss helps mitigate the risk of chronic conditions such as type 2 diabetes, sleep apnoea, and certain cancers, leading to improved long-term health.

Improved Health Outcomes: Weight loss can reduce strain on the heart, lower blood pressure, and improve cholesterol levels, contributing to a healthier cardiovascular system. [4].

So, What’s The Problem?

After exploring the research and potential benefits, it’s clear that weight loss injections can provide effective, short-term results. However, despite these advantages, there are important considerations to keep in mind. While these injections help many individuals lose weight, they do not offer a permanent solution.

In fact, there are two major concerns that must be addressed:

Potential Side Effects: Weight loss injections come with side effects that could be concerning for many individuals.
No Long-Term Solution: An injection alone does nothing to address the root causes of weight gain, such as poor eating habits, lack of exercise, or underlying health conditions. Without addressing these factors, weight regain is highly likely once the injections are stopped.

Potential Side Effects of Weight Loss Injections

While weight loss injections like Saxenda and Mounjaro can provide fast results, they are not without potential drawbacks.

Common Side Effects: nausea, diarrhoea, vomiting, constipation, stomach pain, headache, tiredness, upset stomach, dizziness, bloating, belching, gas, stomach flu, and heartburn.

Discontinuation Rates: Recent research shows that around 30% of people discontinue taking the weight loss drugs Wegovy and Saxenda before reaching their target dose, potentially due to the side effects, with over half quitting within 12 weeks [5].

Serious Risks: So far, unpleasant, but not life-threatening. However, we then come on to the more serious concerns. Wegovy’s website states: "Wegovy™ may cause serious side effects, including possible thyroid tumours, including cancer. Tell your healthcare provider if you get a lump or swelling in your neck, hoarseness, trouble swallowing, or shortness of breath. These may be symptoms of thyroid cancer. In studies with rodents, Wegovy™ and medicines that work like Wegovy™ caused thyroid tumours, including thyroid cancer. It is not known if Wegovy™ will cause thyroid tumours or a type of thyroid cancer called medullary thyroid carcinoma in people."

Muscle Loss Concerns: Research indicates that rapid weight loss from GLP-1 medications can indeed lead to a significant decrease in muscle mass. In fact, studies have shown that 25-33% of weight lost during rapid weight loss may be muscle. This is particularly concerning because preserving muscle mass muscle is not only vital for health, it’s key for long term weight maintenance.

Regaining Weight: Weight loss is only maintained as long as the injections are taken. Once stopped, appetite returns, and weight regain is common, particularly if underlying issues are not addressed. In fact, In one randomised controlled trial published based on almost 2000 participants, two-thirds of the subjects studied regained their prior weight loss after one year of withdrawal. These findings affirm the nuances of obesity and suggest ongoing treatment is required to maintain improvements in weight and health.

Lack of Sustainability: There are numerous reports of weight regain after stopping the injections. Ongoing treatment may be needed to maintain weight loss, as shown in a trial where two-thirds of participants regained weight after a year of discontinuation. In fact , Novo Nordisk, the makers of Wegovy and Ozempic, have openly stated that people need to keep taking their drug to maintain weight loss.

Lack of Permanent Solution: Weight loss injections do not tackle the fundamental causes of weight gain, such as poor diet, lack of exercise, or underlying health conditions. Without addressing these factors, weight is likely to be regained after stopping the injections. Quick fixes like weight loss injections might seem appealing, but they rarely lead to lasting results. Often, they mask deeper issues - whether mental, motivational, or emotional - that need to be addressed for true success. Learning how to eat well, understand your body, and maintain muscle mass will give you the lasting results you deserve.

Remember, weight loss is a journey, not a race. It’s always better to go slow and steady with the support of a qualified dietitian or nutritionist who will guide you every step of the way.

When Should You Consider Weight Loss Injections?

To qualify for weight loss injections like Mounjaro, Ozempic, or Wegovy, you generally need to meet these criteria:

Body Mass Index (BMI): A BMI of 30 or higher classifies as obesity, which qualifies you for these medications.

Health Conditions: If your BMI is 27 or higher, you may qualify if you also have a weight-related condition like type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or sleep apnoea.

In a statement, the British Nutrition Foundation said the following [6]:

“They are prescribed to people who are classified as living with obesity and have health problems due to their weight. They should not be used without a prescription.”

“For people living with obesity, these drugs can be a valuable option for treatment. But we also need to tackle the causes of obesity and to make it easier for people to have better diets and healthier lives.”

Why Personalised, Sustainable Weight Loss with a Nutritionist is the Better Option

While weight loss injections might offer a quick fix, the real key to sustainable weight loss is a personalised approach. Working with a nutritionist to develop a balanced eating plan ensures lasting results. Focus on nutrient-rich foods, preserving muscle mass, and addressing emotional eating for true success.

A nutritionist’s guidance offers several benefits:

Healthy Eating Habits: A nutritionist helps you develop a deep understanding of how to eat well for your body’s needs.

Preserving Muscle Mass: Sustainable weight loss strategies emphasise maintaining or building lean muscle.

Holistic Approach: A nutritionist considers factors like stress, sleep, and mental health that impact weight loss.

Personalised Plans: A nutritionist tailors a plan to your individual needs and preferences.

Support and Accountability: A group setting with regular check-ins helps keep you motivated.

Mental and Emotional Health: Addressing emotional eating helps create a healthier relationship with food.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How long do weight loss injections need to be taken for optimal results?

The duration for taking weight loss injections varies. Some people may need to continue using the injections for long-term weight management. Studies have shown that Wegovy and Ozempic may require ongoing use to maintain weight loss. Discontinuing them can lead to weight regain, especially if the underlying causes of weight gain (like poor diet or lack of exercise) are not addressed.

2. How do weight loss injections compare to other weight loss methods like dieting and exercise?

While weight loss injections can provide quick results, they are not a replacement for dieting and exercise. These methods address the root causes of weight gain and contribute to long-term health benefits. In contrast, injections might offer temporary weight loss, but once discontinued, weight regain is common unless lifestyle factors are changed.

3. Are weight loss injections effective for everyone?

Not everyone will experience the same level of effectiveness with weight loss injections. The results vary based on individual factors such as metabolism, lifestyle, and underlying health conditions. Some individuals may see significant weight loss, while others may experience more modest results. Consulting with a healthcare professional is key to understanding if these injections are right for you.

Conclusion: Quick Fix or Long-Term Solution?

While weight loss injections like Wegovy, Ozempic, and Saxenda can provide fast, noticeable results, they are not a one-size-fits-all solution. These treatments can be effective in the short term, but their benefits typically disappear once the medication is discontinued. When you stop using the injections, your appetite can return, and weight regain is common unless lifestyle changes are made to address the root causes of weight gain.

Ultimately, lasting weight loss requires a holistic approach that includes sustainable changes to nutrition, exercise, and overall habits. Quick fixes may seem tempting, but true success in weight management comes from a commitment to long-term health.

It's crucial to approach weight loss with patience, persistence, and the support of a qualified professional to ensure lasting results that extend beyond temporary solutions.

You can read more about why personalised nutrition, tailored diet plans are key to your success here.

Ready to lose weight sustainably? In the Shift & Sustain program, we focus on just that - helping you lose weight in a way that is personalised, sustainable, and effective, so you can maintain your results for life. You can read more about the program here.