People taking popular GLP-1 weight loss medications like Wegovy and Zepbound can maintain significant weight loss even when facing treatment interruptions, according to new research presented at the Endocrine Society's annual meeting in San Francisco. The study offers reassurance to patients struggling with medication access due to supply shortages and insurance coverage obstacles.
Study Reveals Sustained Weight Loss Despite Treatment Gaps
Researchers analyzed records of nearly 6,400 people who took a GLP-1 drug for at least one month and completed at least one year in an obesity and overweight care program. The findings showed that patients experiencing treatment disruptions still achieved nearly 14% weight loss by 12 months and 15% weight loss at 24 months when combined with intensive lifestyle interventions.
"While unpredictable GLP-1 medication access is frustrating, the good news is that our research shows effective weight loss can still be achieved if paired with appropriate lifestyle changes and coaching support," said lead researcher Kaelen Medeiros, director of data and research at the private weight-loss company Calibrate in New York City.
Widespread Treatment Interruptions Don't Derail Progress
The study revealed that treatment interruptions are common among GLP-1 users, with nearly 3 in 4 participants (73%) experiencing at least one disruption in their GLP-1 treatment, and more than 1 in 10 (11%) facing multiple disruptions. Despite these challenges, patients maintained clinically meaningful weight loss outcomes.
Those without treatment interruptions achieved even better results, with 17% weight loss at 12 months and 20% at 24 months. However, even patients with severe GLP-1 interruptions who received only one to four treatments during 12 months still managed to achieve clinically significant weight loss of more than 10% on average.
Lifestyle Interventions Prove Critical for Success
The study participants followed an intensive lifestyle change program that emphasized food, exercise, sleep and emotional health, supported by one-on-one health coaching. This comprehensive approach appeared crucial for maintaining weight loss benefits during medication gaps.
"Patients taking GLP-1 treatments like semaglutide (Ozempic/Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Zepbound) often face challenges consistently accessing their medications due to supply shortages or insurance coverage obstacles," Medeiros explained. The research suggests that proper lifestyle support can help bridge these access gaps.
Addressing Real-World Access Challenges
Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) drugs work by mimicking the GLP-1 hormone, which helps control insulin and blood sugar levels, decreases appetite and slows digestion of food. Their effectiveness in battling obesity has made them wildly popular, resulting in occasional shortages. Additionally, their high cost has led some insurance companies to institute strict coverage guidelines.
"Given the often-unpredictable availability and shifting insurance coverage associated with anti-obesity medications, it's important that patients understand the significant impact that lifestyle changes and coaching paired with treatment can have on their health outcomes," Medeiros noted.
The research findings were presented at the Endocrine Society meeting and are considered preliminary until published in a peer-reviewed journal.
