Why over half of patients quit Wegovy and semaglutide within a year

A new Danish study has revealed that over half of patients stop using semaglutide for weight loss within a year. The medication, originally developed for diabetes, has become widely prescribed for obesity treatment. However, early discontinuation remains a common issue, with many users quitting before reaching long-term goals.

The research tracked patients using semaglutide-based drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy. Results showed that 18% stopped treatment within three months, rising to 31% by six months and 42% by nine months. By the 12-month mark, 52% had discontinued the therapy entirely.

Discontinuation rates varied by age and gender. Younger adults aged 18 to 29 were more likely to quit (48%) compared to those aged 45 to 59. Men also stopped treatment more often than women. Financial factors played a role too, with higher dropout rates in lower-income areas.

Despite the trend, global demand for semaglutide surged in early 2024. Prescriptions for weight-loss drugs in this class rose by 50-100% in the US, Europe, and Australia. Increased insurance coverage and growing awareness of GLP-1 medications contributed to the spike. However, experts warn that stopping semaglutide prematurely often leads to weight regain, known as the 'yo-yo effect'.

The study highlights a significant gap between rising prescription rates and long-term adherence. With more than half of users quitting within a year, the findings raise concerns about sustained weight management. Health providers may need to address barriers like cost and side effects to improve treatment continuity.