Do GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy cause permanent weight loss?

While some real-world data suggests weight loss can be sustained after stopping GLP-1 drugs, it's not guaranteed for everyone, and further research is ongoing.

What is the nference analysis on GLP-1 drugs?

The nference analysis examined real-world patient data to understand weight regain trends after discontinuing GLP-1 medications.

Can exercise help maintain weight loss from GLP-1 drugs?

Yes, patients who received exercise counseling after stopping GLP-1 treatment were significantly more likely to maintain weight loss.

Home / Health / Real-World Study: Many Keep Weight Off After Stopping GLP-1s

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 Study: Many Keep Weight Off After Stopping GLP-1s

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.