Nearly two-thirds of people with obesity who start glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists stop taking them within a year, according to a new study. These medications — including liraglutide (Saxenda), semaglutide (Wegovy), and tirzepatide (Zepbound) — are widely used for weight loss and improving related health outcomes.

The study analyzed health records from more than 125,000 adults with overweight or obesity who began GLP-1 treatment between 2018 and 2023. Researchers found that 64.8 percent of people without type 2 diabetes — those taking GLP-1s to manage obesity or overweight — stopped taking them within a year. Those who lost more weight were less likely to stop treatment.

Among people with obesity or overweight who stopped taking a GLP-1, 36.3 percent restarted treatment within a year. Those who regained weight after stopping treatment were more likely to retake a GLP-1.

Researchers identified several reasons people stopped taking these drugs. Some couldn’t tolerate the moderate to severe digestive side effects, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation​. For others, cost may have been a barrier — people with higher incomes were less likely to stop the pricey medications than those with lower incomes.

Talk to Your Doctor About Side Effects and Cost Concerns

GLP-1 agonists mimic a natural hormone that helps regulate blood glucose (sugar) and appetite. This can make these drugs helpful for people trying to lose weight and manage obesity-related health conditions. The growing interest in these medications has been driven by promising clinical trial results and increasing use for weight management. However, these medications aren’t without drawbacks — many people experience side effects, and the high cost can make long-term use difficult.

If you are taking a GLP-1 agonist or any other medication and find it difficult to tolerate or afford, talk to your doctor before stopping treatment. They may be able to adjust your dosage, suggest another medication, or help you find cost-saving options such as patient assistance programs or insurance coverage alternatives.

Get answers to your questions about GLP-1 drugs, including insurance coverage and side effects.

Find Your Team

On MyObesityTeam, the social network for people living with obesity, members share their experiences with GLP-1 medications.

Have you taken a GLP-1 receptor agonist? Did you stop and restart treatment? Share your tips and experiences in a comment below, start a conversation on your Activities page, or connect with others in Groups.