231. Breaking the Stigma: Can You Ever Stop GLP-1 Agonists After Weight Loss?

Written By Ali Novitsky, MD

"Am I going to be on it forever? That's always what they say."

Today, we are wrapping up part three of our GLP-1 series. This series has been a fantastic way to provide you with up-to-date, evidence-based information, especially in a world filled with misinformation.

One of the most common questions I get is whether you can come off a GLP-1 agonist once you've started. If you've had weight loss success on a GLP-1 agonist, does that mean you have to be on it forever? The answer isn't simple, and today, we're diving deep into this topic.

Personal Story

Before we get into the nitty-gritty, Dr. Ali shared a personal story about our younger daughter who loves cozy spaces. They discovered a hidden cubby area in her room that they plan to transform into a little hideaway for her. It's a fun project that has brought a lot of excitement to the household.

Addressing the Fear

Many people are fearful about starting a GLP-1 agonist because they think it means a life-long commitment. We approach this by first focusing on nutrition, exercise, behavioral management, and emotional work. If there's no progress in six months to a year, we consider medication as a fourth pillar.

The Stigma and Shame

There's a lot of stigma and shame associated with using GLP-1 agonists. People often think it's the "easy way out" or a "quick fix." Dr. Novitsky wants to emphasize that medication is useful for leveling the metabolic playing field. Those who get results on GLP-1 agonists are doing all the work.

Long-Term Use and Quality of Life

Many people fear they'll have to be on the medication forever. Dr.Ali’s usual response is that we'll aim to help you reach your goal at the lowest dose possible while implementing lifestyle changes. Some people choose to stay on the medication because it significantly improves their quality of life, reducing food chatter and allowing them to focus on other aspects of life.

Custom Approach

Every individual is different. Some may need to stay on the medication for life, while others may be able to come off it. The key is to start with the lowest dose and go slow, adjusting as needed. The goal is to use the minimal amount that gets results.

The Role of Lifestyle Parameters

Implementing lifestyle parameters is crucial. Those who haven't done so before starting the medication may need a higher dose and might find it harder to come off. However, it's possible to titrate down or space out the doses over time.

Mixed Studies and Individual Results

Studies show mixed results on whether people can maintain weight loss after coming off the medication. Success often depends on maintaining muscle mass and continuing lifestyle changes. Some people may need a small dose to manage food chatter and appetite.

Conclusion

In summary, coming off a GLP-1 agonist is possible but depends on various factors, including lifestyle changes and individual metabolic health. The most important thing is to provide a custom experience for each person, ensuring they get the best quality of life.

Listen to Episode 231 Here

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Chapters

00:00:01 - Introduction and Episode Overview
00:00:12 - Importance of GLP-1 Series
00:00:34 - Main Topic Introduction: Can You Come Off GLP-1 Agonists?
00:01:16 - Personal Story: Daughter's Cozy Space
00:03:04 - Introducing Jeff the Handyman
00:03:15 - Addressing Fear of Long-term Use of GLP-1 Agonists
00:03:26 - Initial Approach to Weight Loss: Nutrition, Exercise, and Behavior
00:03:57 - Role of Medication in Weight Loss Programs
00:04:19 - Common Fears and Misconceptions about GLP-1 Agonists
00:05:02 - Stigma and Shame Associated with Medication
00:05:24 - Medication as a Tool for Metabolic Health
00:05:45 - Long-term Use and Dosage Management
00:06:16 - Obesity Statistics and Medication Access
00:07:08 - Media Influence and Celebrity Use of GLP-1 Agonists
00:08:01 - Implementing Lifestyle Changes Alongside Medication
00:08:21 - Success Stories and Quality of Life Improvements
00:09:03 - Customizing Dosage and Avoiding Side Effects
00:10:07 - Future of Obesity Medicine and Microdosing
00:10:18 - Evolution of GLP-1 Agonists from Diabetes to Weight Loss
00:11:02 - Biology vs. Modern Society: Need for Medication
00:11:24 - Normalizing Metabolic Health in Society
00:11:44 - Case Study: New Patients and Lifestyle Changes
00:12:36 - Importance of Community Support
00:13:08 - Dosage Management and Individual Differences
00:14:02 - Titrating Down and Spacing Out Doses
00:14:57 - Potential Rebound Effects and Weight Gain
00:15:28 - Maintaining Weight Loss After Medication
00:16:01 - Role of Muscle Mass and Healthy Habits
00:16:44 - PCOS and Medication Management
00:17:59 - Customizing Treatment Plans for Patients
00:18:44 - Mental Health Benefits of GLP-1 Agonists
00:19:27 - Encouraging Patients to Stay on Medication if Beneficial
00:20:21 - Challenges in Accessing Medication
00:20:54 - Impact on Mental Health and Food Chatter
00:21:16 - Conclusion and Upcoming Programs
00:21:37 - Links to Programs and Show Notes

Resources:

*Ali Novitsky MD, this podcast, and podcast write-up are NOT providing medical advice. We do not recommend you start any exercise program without first consulting with your doctor!*

Ali Novitsky, MD https://www.mindbodymarriage.com
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232. Unlocking Your Body Type: The Secret to Optimal Weight Loss Part 1
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230. Understanding GLP-1 Agonists: Addressing the Myth of Non-Responsiveness