A pharmacist is issuing a strong advisory to individuals in Singapore using weight loss injections like Ozempic, Mounjaro, and Wegovy: avoid the temptation to halt treatment temporarily during the Christmas and New Year festive period. Abruptly stopping these medications, even for a short duration, can lead to significant health consequences when resuming the treatment.
These medications, known as GLP-1 agonists, function by curbing appetite and diminishing hunger pangs. They achieve this by reducing what’s often referred to as “food noise,” which encompasses intrusive thoughts and strong cravings, particularly for foods high in fats and carbohydrates. Originally developed for managing type 2 diabetes, they have become increasingly popular as off-label weight loss solutions.
The upcoming festive season often sees individuals considering a break from their weight loss regimens to fully indulge in Christmas dinners and festive treats without feeling restricted. However, this approach carries risks.
The Risks of Stopping GLP-1 Agonists
Aaron Arman, a Superintendent Pharmacist at CheqUp, highlights the potential dangers of interrupting GLP-1 agonist treatment. He cautions that unless there’s a compelling medical reason, discontinuing the medication abruptly can trigger rebound high blood sugar levels and a swift regain of lost weight.
- Rebound High Blood Sugar: Suddenly stopping the medication can disrupt glucose control, leading to elevated blood sugar levels.
- Rapid Weight Regain: The appetite-regulating effects of the medication are lost, potentially leading to overeating and subsequent weight gain.
- Undermining Treatment Goals: Interrupting the treatment can negate the progress made and hinder long-term weight management goals.
These risks are amplified during the festive season, which is typically associated with increased consumption of carbohydrates and sugars. The medications work by regulating appetite, digestion, and glucose control, so suddenly stopping them removes these protective effects.
Survey Reveals Common Intentions
Recent research conducted by CheqUp indicates that a significant portion of individuals using GLP-1 medications are considering reducing their dosage over Christmas, with most planning to return to their regular dose after the New Year.
Stronger Side Effects Upon Restarting
Resuming the injections after a break can be detrimental to health, especially if the original dosage was high. Mr. Arman points out that patients who pause their medication may experience more pronounced side effects when restarting, as the body loses its tolerance to the drug.
He strongly advises individuals contemplating changes to their medication schedule during the holidays to consult with their prescribing clinician first.
Survey Findings: Dosage Adjustments and Reasons
CheqUp surveyed 500 adults in the UK who are currently using these medications. The results revealed a mixed approach to managing medication during the festive season:
- Continuing Usual Dosage: 42% of respondents plan to maintain their regular dosage throughout the period.
- Taking a Complete Break: A concerning 10% intend to completely stop taking the medication.
- Reducing Dosage: Among those planning to reduce their dose, nearly two-thirds (64%) aim to resume their usual dosage after New Year, while a quarter plan to resume immediately after Christmas.
The survey also uncovered the primary motivations behind these decisions:
- Enjoying the Festivities: 48% wanted to “go all out and enjoy themselves” without dietary restrictions.
- Deserving a Break: 42% felt they “deserve a break” from the medication.
- Easy Resumption of Weight Loss: 26% believed they could easily resume weight loss efforts in January.
- Avoiding Burdening Hosts: 24% didn’t want to be a burden on hosts by having specific dietary needs.
- Difficulty Controlling Portions: 20% felt they wouldn’t be able to control their portions at festive meals.
Hesitancy to Discuss Medication Use
The survey also highlighted a reluctance among users to openly discuss their medication with loved ones. 13% had not informed their family or friends about their medication use over Christmas.
Nearly a quarter of respondents expressed discomfort in discussing appetite changes or GLP-1 use around the Christmas table.
Reasons for this discomfort included:
- Fear of Judgement: 46% feared being judged for using the medication.
- Belief it’s Nobody’s Business: 40% felt their medication use was a private matter.
- Not Wanting to Explain Repeatedly: 34% didn’t want to repeatedly explain their treatment.
- Concern About Being Called ‘Cheating’: Over a quarter (26%) worried people would accuse them of “cheating” in their weight loss efforts.
- Embarrassment: 26% felt embarrassed about using the medication.
- Pressure to Stop: One in ten (10%) feared they would be pressured to stop taking the medication for Christmas.
Balancing Medical Treatment and Social Traditions
Toby Nicol, Chief Executive at CheqUp, notes that people are clearly struggling to balance medical treatment with social traditions. This confusion and embarrassment are driving “stop-start” approaches to medication rather than clinical considerations.
He emphasizes the importance of consistent clinical guidance to help individuals manage their doses safely throughout the holidays. Practical advice on portion control, alcohol consumption, and how hosts can prepare meals for guests on medical weight loss journeys can make a significant difference.
Adapting Festive Eating Habits
While the survey results raised concerns, they also revealed that some individuals are proactively adapting their festive eating habits rather than abandoning their medication altogether.
- Smaller Portion Sizes: Six in ten respondents said they would choose smaller portion sizes.
- Reduced Alcohol Consumption: Half planned to drink less alcohol.
- Lighter Dishes: Half planned to opt for lighter or lower-calorie dishes.
- Alternative Desserts and Snacks: Four in ten said they would seek alternative desserts or snacks.
- Skipping Dishes: 32% planned to skip certain dishes completely.
- Reducing Courses: 25% planned to reduce the number of courses they consumed.
