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Preventing Weight Regain: Are Medications the Answer?
Published: Jan 06, 2024
Weight loss is only half the battle; keeping it off is the real challenge. Could medications help in preventing the dreaded weight regain?
The Challenge of Maintaining Weight Loss
After significant weight loss, many people face weight regain due to changes in energy expenditure and appetite hormones. These biological factors make sustaining weight loss difficult. Long-term medication can be a solution to help maintain weight loss and prevent regain.
How Medications Can Help
Certain medications, like GLP-1 receptor agonists, are designed to be used long-term to aid in weight maintenance. They work by helping to control appetite and manage energy expenditure, making it easier to keep the weight off.
Monitoring for Success
Regular monitoring is crucial to ensure medications continue to be effective. This involves checking weight, blood pressure, and heart rate, and adjusting doses as necessary. Side effects should also be managed to ensure the treatment is well-tolerated.
Frequently Asked Questions
Biological changes favor weight regain, making maintenance challenging.
GLP-1 receptor agonists like semaglutide are common choices.
Every two to three months is recommended.
Wrapping It Up
Medications can be a valuable ally in maintaining weight loss, but require consistent monitoring.
References
- Sumithran P, Prendergast LA, Delbridge E, et al. Long-term persistence of hormonal adaptations to weight loss. N Engl J Med 2011; 365:1597.
- Rosenbaum M, Hirsch J, Gallagher DA, Leibel RL. Long-term persistence of adaptive thermogenesis in subjects who have maintained a reduced body weight. Am J Clin Nutr 2008; 88:906.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
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