[Around the holidays, some adults who use medications for diabetes or weight loss consider skipping doses due to side effects or wanting to fully enjoy festive foods. Two endocrinologists, Dr. Judith Korner and Dr. Alyssa Dominguez, reveal that some of their patients have asked about skipping doses during vacations or holidays, citing concerns over side effects and cost.
People taking GLP-1 receptor agonists or dual agonists, such as Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Zepbound, should be aware of the potential impact on their blood sugar levels, appetite, and weight loss goals. Dr. Korner emphasized that skipping doses can lead to higher blood glucose levels, and Dr. Dominguez noted that it may allow for overeating, potentially impeding weight loss efforts.
Most medications have dosage guidelines for when to take missed doses. While it’s often manageable to skip up to two weeks of medication without adjusting dose, Dr. Deborah Horn recommended against skipping doses solely for indulgence. Additionally, providers caution against consuming too much food and suggest smaller portions, eating frequent meals, avoiding greasy and heavy foods, and skipping heavy drinking.
Staying on one’s medication during the holidays, however, has its benefits, as Dr. Eduardo Grunvald from the UCSD Bariatric and Metabolic Institute noted that patients often find it easier to maintain their medications and still enjoy treats by monitoring portion sizes.
Ultimately, care should be taken when considering adjusting medication schedules. If side effects occur when doses are restarted, healthcare providers offer anti-nausea medication assistance. The true spirit of the holidays, noted Dr. Korner, encompasses more than just food – prioritizing family and friends, staying active, and engaging in meaningful activities can enrich the season, regardless of the medication regimen.
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