As medications like Ozempic, Wegovy and Mounjaro see soaring popularity for treating obesity, a number of myths and misconceptions about these weight loss drugs persist. Health experts are working to separate fact from fiction:
Myth 1: The drugs are just a quick fix or shortcut Reality: While effective for weight loss, the medications still require significant lifestyle changes around diet and exercise for maximum, lasting benefit.
Myth 2: They are a new, unstudied craze Reality: GLP-1 agonists like semaglutide have over a decade of clinical research showing their safety and efficacy when used as prescribed.
Myth 3: Weight loss just comes from dehydration or “rebound” Reality: The drugs work by regulating appetite hormones to reduce calorie intake, resetting the body’s set point for weight regulation.
Myth 4: The medications guarantee permanent weight loss Reality: If discontinued, the majority of patients will regain much of the lost weight unless lifestyle habits change permanently.
Myth 5: The side effects are intolerable Reality: While nausea, diarrhea can occur, most only experience mild-moderate effects if doses are increased gradually.
As with any medication, the weight loss drugs have real risks and won’t work for everyone. But dispelling common myths is important for public education on their appropriate use for obesity treatment.
Experts stress the drugs should be seen as a potential tool, not a miracle cure, in the broader effort to adopt healthier behaviors for sustainable weight management.
