Doctors discuss the possible risks, advantages, and methods for staying on track while still enjoying the holidays, as some patients think about stopping their diabetic or weight-loss prescriptions to indulge in festive foods or prevent adverse effects.
Family get-togethers and festive meals are common during the holidays, but for some people using diabetic or weight-loss drugs, the season presents a conundrum: should they stop taking their drugs in order to fully indulge in holiday treats?
Columbia University endocrinologist Dr. Judith Korner recognizes this frequent question. According to her, “some patients think about skipping doses to enjoy food or avoid medication side effects during celebrations.”
Although they reduce hunger, medications like Ozempic and Wegovy, which are frequently used to treat diabetes and aid in weight loss, can have negative side effects including nausea or upset stomach.
“It’s understandable why someone might want to avoid these symptoms while traveling or celebrating,” says Dr. Alyssa Dominguez of Keck Medicine of USC.
Experts caution that stopping medicine can have negative effects. Dosage skipping can cause blood sugar levels to rise in patients with type 2 diabetes. Reduced appetite control may be experienced by those taking these medications to lose weight, which could impede their efforts.
Doctors stress safety as well. Ozempic and other medications have a day-long impact, but if you stop taking them for longer than two weeks, you may experience worse negative effects when you start taking them again.
Smaller quantities and steering clear of rich, fatty foods will help reduce pain when indulging in holiday treats.
In the end, physicians remind their patients that holidays are about more than just eating. Ice-skating and gift-wrapping are two activities that can help people focus on their loved ones and their common experiences.
To guarantee a secure and joyful holiday season, speak with your healthcare practitioner if you’re thinking about taking a break.
