Study finds 82% regain weight and lose heart health benefits after stopping GLP-1 drugs.
Stopping GLP-1 drugs leads to weight regain and loss of heart health benefits in 82% of users.
Why it matters
- Highlights the need for long-term use of GLP-1 drugs for sustained weight management.
- Shows that stopping the drug can reverse health benefits, similar to other chronic disease medications.
By the numbers
- 82% regained at least 25% of lost weight.
- 57% regained at least 50% of lost weight.
- 24% regained at least 75% of lost weight.
- Study followed 670 participants initially, with 308 closely tracked.
The big picture
- GLP-1 drugs may need to be taken indefinitely for sustained benefits.
- More research needed on safe withdrawal strategies.
What they're saying
- Experts suggest rebranding these drugs as "weight management" drugs.
- Calls for more data on weaning strategies and effects of weight cycling.
Caveats
- Study involved abrupt withdrawal, not gradual tapering.
- Limited data on safe withdrawal strategies.
What’s next
- Research on safe ways to stop taking GLP-1 drugs.
- Studies on long-term effects of weight cycling.