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Real-World Study: Many Keep Weight Off After Stopping GLP-1s
22 Jan
Summary
- Most patients maintained or lost more weight 18 months after stopping GLP-1 drugs.
- Exercise counseling significantly increased likelihood of maintaining weight loss.
- Real-world data contrasts with clinical trial findings on weight regain.
Real-world evidence indicates that a significant portion of patients using GLP-1 drugs, such as Novo Nordisk's semaglutide and Eli Lilly's tirzepatide, can sustain weight loss after stopping treatment. This contrasts with findings from clinical trials that suggested substantial weight regain upon discontinuation.
An analysis of over 135,000 patients found that among those who stopped tirzepatide, about 36% maintained their weight loss and another 36% continued to lose weight six months later. For semaglutide users, 32% maintained weight loss and 35% continued to lose weight in the same timeframe.
Researchers noted that patients who received exercise counseling after their last prescription were nearly twice as likely to maintain weight loss. This suggests that behavior changes, possibly combined with lasting physiological effects from the drugs, could contribute to durable weight management.
While acknowledging study limitations, experts suggest these findings may pave the way for personalized obesity treatment plans. These plans could better identify individuals who can safely discontinue medication, require intermittent use, or need sustained treatment to preserve metabolic health.
