Is Ozempic enough? An expert’s approach to sustainable weight loss

If you’re thinking about taking Ozempic or other weight loss drugs, you may be in for a surprise: keeping the results you want after stopping the medication can be challenging.

Originally approved in 2017 to treat type 2 diabetes, Ozempic has recently gained popularity for its effectiveness in aiding weight loss. As more people turn to this medication and research reveals its broader effects, Ozempic shows potential in addressing a range of health conditions.

While these medications have become incredibly popular for shedding pounds, they’re not a magic fix for everyone struggling with obesity.

Dr. George Merriman, MD, FACS, FASMBS, a bariatric and metabolic expert at CHRISTUS Health, emphasizes that a comprehensive treatment plan is still crucial to sustaining long-term results.

“If you’re not following a well-rounded plan, you may find yourself back at square one once you stop taking the medication,” he said.

Why Ozempic Alone May Not Be Enough

Ozempic and similar drugs work by reducing appetite and slowing digestion, helping you consume fewer calories. While this can kickstart weight loss, it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution.

“The medications are a tool, not the whole toolbox. Without changes in nutrition, exercise, and behavior, the weight loss is likely temporary,” Dr. Merriman said.

The Cost of Weight Loss Medications

For many, one challenge with these medications isn’t just the side effects—it’s the cost.

Without insurance coverage, drugs like Ozempic can be expensive. Dr. Merriman warns that without a long-term strategy, patients risk losing not only weight but also their financial investment.

The Key to Lasting Success: A Holistic Approach

Experts agree that lasting weight management involves addressing the root causes of obesity, which are often genetic, psychological, and environmental.

Dr. Merriman’s clinic takes a multi-modality approach that includes medical oversight, nutritional counseling, and psychological support.

“It’s about meeting patients where they are,” he said. “The focus isn’t just on losing pounds but on sustaining healthier habits for life.”

Bottom Line: Get the Right Guidance

Ozempic and other weight loss drugs can be valuable tools in managing obesity, but they work best when part of a comprehensive plan led by an expert.

If you’re considering these medications, make sure you’re prepared to commit to the full journey.

“Don’t waste your time and money without a clear strategy,” Dr. Merriman said. “The real investment should be in lasting health, not just temporary results.”

Understanding Obesity as a Spectrum Disease

Dr. Merriman emphasizes that obesity is not just about being overweight—it’s a complex spectrum disease with genetic, psychological, and environmental factors.

He believes it’s crucial to meet patients where they are on the spectrum, whether they’re dealing with early-stage weight gain or more advanced conditions.

“We need to shift from seeing obesity as just a weight problem to recognizing it as an illness,” Dr. Merriman said. “Patients are on different parts of the spectrum, so we need to meet them where they are.”

Psychological Support: The Missing Piece for Many Patients

Psychological counseling plays a crucial role in Dr. Merriman’s treatment plan. His team often encounters patients dealing with past trauma, addiction, or behavioral patterns that contribute to weight gain.

“Many patients have experienced severe trauma, and counseling is often as important as the medical treatment itself,” Dr. Merriman said. “We emphasize mental health support alongside other modalities.”

The Challenge of Weight Regain 

Dr. Merriman warns about the dangers of the “yo-yo” effect, where repeated weight loss and regain can increase the body’s weight set point, making future weight loss even more challenging.

“The ‘yo-yo’ effect can actually push your body’s weight set point higher,” he said. “This makes it even more difficult to lose weight in the long run, which is why ongoing support is essential.”

Commitment Beyond Medication

Dr. Merriman is clear: staying on medication is not the goal. Weight management is like recovery—it’s a process filled with setbacks and restarts.

Dr. Merriman’s clinic thoroughly vets patients before they begin treatment, making sure they understand the financial aspects, insurance coverage, and treatment expectations upfront.

“We do a lot of groundwork before a patient even walks through our doors,” Dr. Merriman said. “By understanding their insurance, resources, and readiness to commit, we help set them up for real success.”