Why Do So Many People Stop Taking GLP-1 Medications?
GLP-1 medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro have helped millions of people lose weight, regulate blood sugar, and improve their health. [1] But there’s a surprising problem most people don’t hear about upfront:
Many people stop taking GLP-1s within the first year [2]
And this drop-off can be a major barrier to weight loss results and long-term health benefits. Let’s explore:
- Why the dropout rate is so high.
- What the research shows.
- And how you can set yourself up for success, starting with your gut.
The Problem: GLP-1 Dropout Rates Are Shockingly High
Recent real-world data from the US shows that up to 70% of patients stop taking GLP-1 medications within 12 months.
In fact [3]:
- Only ~30–50% remain on treatment after one year depending on the specific drug (e.g. Ozempic, Wegovy, or Rybelsus).
- Dropout happens fastest in the first 90 days.
- People often discontinue even though long-term use is key to sustained weight loss and metabolic improvements
Why Do So Many People Stop?
The top reasons are side effects and tolerability issues—especially early in treatment – but efficacy and cost might also play a role. GLP-1 medications affect the gut directly, slowing digestion and suppressing appetite. That’s how they work—but it often leads to:
- Nausea,
- Constipation,
- Bloating,
- Diarrhoea,
- Acid reflux,
- Food aversions,
- Fatigue and low energy. [4]
When side effects become overwhelming, motivation to continue treatment can decline, often leading patients to stop before they experience the full advantages.
The Long-Term GLP-1 Benefits Are Clear—But You Need to Stick With It
GLP-1 medications offer a range of health benefits, from sustained weight loss to better metabolic health. Clinical trials lasting up to three years have shown these treatments to be both safe and effective. While staying on treatment long-term may be needed to keep the results, even shorter use can lead to meaningful improvements. [5]
Ideally, in the long-term, GLP-1 treatment is linked to:
- Greater weight loss.
- Lower cardiovascular risk.
- Reduced inflammation.
- Better blood sugar control.
- Higher chance of reversing prediabetes or type 2 diabetes. [6]
Achieving these outcomes requires persistence, especially in the early stages. Unfortunately, many individuals struggle during this period and decide to discontinue treatment.
A recent study of more than 195,000 U.S. patients found that GLP-1 discontinuation rates reached 64.8% by 12 months among people without type 2 diabetes, compared to 46.5% for those with diabetes. [7] Similarly, another study reported a 65% discontinuation rate at one year for patients without type 2 diabetes. [8]
What Can You Do About It?
1. Prepare Your Gut – And Your Mind – Before You Start
Leading Swiss obesity specialists now recommend starting a gut support regimen at least 2 weeks before beginning GLP-1 medication.
A healthy gut means fewer gastrointestinal side effects and better nutrient absorption. This translates to more energy, improved well-being, and increased motivation to stay on track with your treatment.
2. Probiotic Support During GLP-1 Therapy
During GLP-1 treatment, the digestive system is often under additional stress. Research shows that the composition of the gut microbiota during this phase can play an important role in overall well-being.
Probiotic supplements can help maintain microbial diversity in the gut and support digestive well-being. In this way, natural balance can be supported – both before starting and during ongoing therapy.
Final Thoughts: Your Gut Is the Key to GLP-1 Success
Discontinuation is common, but it’s not inevitable. By preparing your gut and proactively managing digestive side effects, you give yourself the best chance to adhere to the treatment plan, lose weight, and improve your health long-term.
- Current Clinical Research Trends in GLP-1 Treatment
- Discontinuation and Reinitiation of Dual-Labeled GLP-1 Receptor Agonists Among US Adults With Overweight or Obesity | Nutrition, Obesity, Exercise | JAMA Network Open | JAMA Network
- Real-world persistence and adherence to glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists among obese commercially insured adults without diabetes - PubMed
- GLP-1 diabetes and weight-loss drug side effects: "Ozempic face" and more - Harvard Health
- Efficacy and Safety of GLP-1 Medicines for Type 2 Diabetes and Obesity | Diabetes Care | American Diabetes Association
- Recent Advances and Therapeutic Benefits of Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 (GLP-1) Agonists in the Management of Type 2 Diabetes and Associated Metabolic Disorders - PMC
- https://www.bcbs.com/media/pdf/BHI_Issue_Brief_GLP1_Trends.pdf
- https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2819256
