The Hidden Risks of GLP-1 Inhibitor Injections for Weight Loss
- Sep 1
- 3 min read
Updated: Sep 15
In recent years, medications such as semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy) and liraglutide (Saxenda) — part of a class known as GLP-1 receptor agonists — have skyrocketed in popularity for weight loss. While they were originally developed to treat type 2 diabetes, their appetite-suppressing effects have made them widely prescribed for people seeking quick weight reduction.
But just like restrictive diets, these injections are not a magic solution. In fact, emerging research shows they may cause serious side effects and raise questions about long-term safety when used for weight management alone.
How GLP-1 Inhibitors Work
GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) is a hormone involved in blood sugar regulation and appetite control. GLP-1 receptor agonists mimic this hormone, slowing gastric emptying and reducing hunger [1]. While this leads to weight loss in the short term, the body often adapts in ways that make long-term success challenging.
Side Effects and Health Risks
1. Gastrointestinal Distress and Gastritis
The most common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal pain [2]. Some people also experience heartburn and gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining), which can lead to persistent stomach pain, bloating, and even ulcers if left untreated [3, 5].
Gastrointestinal tract disorders were reported most frequently and in greater proportions with continued semaglutide than placebo (41.9% vs 26.1%, respectively) [3]
2. Rebound Weight Gain
Much like traditional dieting, once the medication is stopped, appetite returns and rebound weight gain is common. A 2021 study found that participants regained weight after stopping injections due to calorie restriction causing altered levels of fullness hormones leptin and cholecystokinin, and increased hunger hormone ghrelin and appetite [4].
3. Loss of Lean Muscle Mass
Rapid weight loss from GLP-1 injections doesn’t just reduce fat — it also reduces muscle mass (a key component to metabolism and longevity). This can lower metabolic rate, making it harder to maintain weight loss long term and increasing frailty risks, particularly in older adults [5].
4. Tissue damage, severe diahrrhoa and burst Appendix risk
GLP-1 medications have been associated with "burns and lesions in oesophagus and stomach" from severe heartburn and hospital admission from appendicitis in a 58 year old mother [6].
5. Psychological Impacts
Relying on medication rather than building sustainable habits can create dependency and undermine long-term confidence in one’s ability to manage health without external aids.
The Bigger Picture
While GLP-1 inhibitors may provide short-term weight loss, they don’t address the root causes of overeating, emotional health, or lifestyle patterns. Worse, they expose the body to risks that can outweigh the benefits. For many people, this means another cycle of temporary results followed by rebound weight gain and frustration.
A Better Way Forward
Instead of relying on quick fixes, sustainable strategies like balanced nutrition, regular movement, stress management, and mindful eating remain the most effective path for long-term health. Unlike medications, these habits build resilience, strengthen metabolism, and empower individuals to maintain results without harmful side effects.
Conclusion
GLP-1 injections may look like an easy weight loss solution, but they come with risks — from gastrointestinal distress and appendicitis to rebound weight gain, and long-term health concerns. True, lasting health comes not from injections, but from creating habits that nourish both the body and mind.
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References
Drucker, D. J. (2018). Mechanisms of action and therapeutic application of glucagon-like peptide-1. Cell Metabolism, 27(4), 740–756. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cmet.2018.03.001
Nauck, M. A., & Meier, J. J. (2019). Management of endocrine disease: Are all GLP-1 agonists equal in the treatment of type 2 diabetes? European Journal of Endocrinology, 181(6), R211–R234. https://doi.org/10.1530/EJE-19-0566
Rubino, D., Abrahamsson, N., Davies, M., Hesse, D., Greenway, F. L., Jensen, C., … & Wilding, J. P. H. (2022). Effect of continued weekly subcutaneous semaglutide vs. withdrawal on weight maintenance in adults with overweight or obesity. JAMA, 327(14), 1389–1397. https://doi:10.1001/jama.2021.3224
Abdullah bin Ahmed, I. (2024). A comprehensive review on weight gain following discontinuation of glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonists for obesity. Journal of Obesity, 2024(1), 8056440. https://doi.org/10.1155/2024/8056440
Tinsley, G. M., & Heymsfield, S. B. (2024). Fundamental body composition principles provide context for fat-free and skeletal muscle loss with GLP-1 RA treatments. Journal of the Endocrine Society, 8(11), bvae164. https://doi.org/10.1210/jendso/bvae164
