A new medical study is challenging earlier assumptions about weight-loss medications, suggesting that stopping GLP-1 drugs may not result in the substantial weight regain once expected.
The study, conducted at the Cleveland Clinic and published in Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism, found that patients who discontinued medications such as Ozempic, Wegovy, and Zepbound regained only a minimal amount of the weight they had lost.
Researchers analyzed data from nearly 8,000 adults in Ohio and Florida who had used medications containing semaglutide or tirzepatide for periods ranging from three months to one year before stopping treatment.
Unlike traditional clinical trials, this study relied on real-world data, where patients often switch treatments or continue lifestyle interventions after discontinuation.
Results showed that participants lost an average of 8.4% of their body weight before stopping treatment, while the average weight regained after one year was only 0.5%.
Researchers suggest this limited regain may be due to many patients not fully discontinuing care, instead transitioning to alternative medications or ongoing lifestyle programs.
According to the data, about 27% of patients switched to other obesity treatments, 20% resumed the same medication after resolving insurance or side-effect issues, and 14% enrolled in intensive lifestyle programs including diet and exercise coaching.
Overall, the findings highlight that weight management is not solely dependent on medication but on a comprehensive system of treatment, habits, and continuous support.
