A GP has revealed his golden rule for patients taking weight-loss jabs such as Wegovy or Mounjaro to help them keep the weight off after stopping the medication. Dr Adam Staten, a GP and medical director for One Day Tests based in Milton Keynes, works with patients using GLP-1 medications and has seen both success stories and cases where people regained weight.
The Key Question Before Starting Jabs
Dr Staten emphasised that the biggest misconception is that these drugs are a 'wonder drug' that requires no effort. He said all users must ask themselves one question before starting: 'What lifestyle do you want to end up with?' He explained that people need to have a clear picture of their desired outcome and understand the changes they need to make alongside the medication.
"The injections are just a tool, and some people haven't given a huge amount of thought to the aftermath. Keeping the weight off after stopping jabs is definitely doable, but you have to have done other things alongside the medication," Dr Staten said. "One of those things is implementing a lifestyle that doesn't feel like a chore to continue."
Benefits and Risks of GLP-1 Medications
Dr Staten noted that the jabs not only help people lose weight but also reduce risks of heart disease, strokes, diabetes, and fatty liver disease. He acknowledged that many doctors were initially sceptical about GLP-1 jabs, preferring to promote diet and exercise. However, his feelings changed after seeing the "remarkable" weight loss outcomes facilitated by these drugs.
He observed a shift where some people commit to staying on a low dose long-term, or even forever, after losing initial weight to maintain results. However, due to high costs, this is not viable for everyone.
Dietary Changes for Sustainable Weight Loss
Dr Staten advised moving away from just counting calories and considering the quality of nutrition. For example, avocado on toast may have similar calories to a McDonald's meal, but the nutritional benefits make it a better choice. He recommended increasing protein intake from the start of the weight-loss journey, not after stopping the jabs, for sustainability.
For more information about Wegovy or Mounjaro, including prescribing criteria, visit the NHS website.
