Healthy Returns: Why people quit weight loss, diabetes drugs within one year

Core Insights - A significant portion of patients discontinue GLP-1 drugs within a year, with 65% of non-diabetic patients and 46% of Type 2 diabetes patients ceasing treatment [2][3] - The study highlights that adverse side effects and cost are primary reasons for discontinuation, with gastrointestinal issues being common [3] - Higher income levels correlate with lower discontinuation rates among diabetic patients [4] Group 1: Discontinuation Rates - Approximately 65% of patients without diabetes stop using GLP-1s within one year, compared to 46% of those with Type 2 diabetes [2] - Discontinuation rates increase over time, with around 84% of non-diabetic patients and 64% of diabetic patients stopping the drugs within two years [3] Group 2: Factors Influencing Continuation - Adverse side effects, particularly gastrointestinal issues like nausea and vomiting, are significant factors leading to discontinuation [3] - Patients who experience fewer side effects are less likely to stop treatment [3] - Weight loss results are crucial, as those who lose more weight are more likely to continue using the drugs, while those who regain weight are more inclined to try again [5] Group 3: Demographic Insights - The study analyzed electronic health records of over 125,000 adults who began GLP-1 treatment between January 2018 and December 2023 [6] - Income levels play a role in treatment adherence, with higher income patients showing lower rates of discontinuation [4]