Danish researchers analysed data from over 77,000 adults using anti-obesity medications without diabetes. They found 52 percent stopped within one year. Eighteen percent quit within three months, 31 percent quit within six months, and 42 percent quit within nine months.
Younger, Male, and Low-Income Users Quit Most
Adults under 30 quit 48 percent more than people aged 45 to 59. Men showed higher dropout rates than women. Residents in low-income areas quit 14 percent more often than those in wealthier neighborhoods. Researchers linked prior gastrointestinal or psychiatric medication use to higher quitting, suggesting side effects like nausea or vomiting influenced decisions.
Cost Barriers Affect Long-Term Use
A month’s supply of Ozempic costs up to €313 in Denmark without diabetes coverage, compared with €120 in Germany. High costs may limit access and push patients to stop treatment.
Long-Term Use Essential for Effectiveness
Ozempic and Wegovy belong to the GLP-1 receptor agonist class, which mimics hormones to reduce appetite and promote weight loss. Patients who stop these drugs often regain lost weight.
Professor Reimar W. Thomsen said, “These medications need long-term use. Appetite control benefits disappear when patients stop taking them.”
Implications for Public Health
Thomsen emphasized the importance of supporting patients to maintain adherence. GLP-1 drugs reduce risks for heart disease, cancer, and addiction. With more than half of European adults living with overweight or obesity, identifying who benefits most and improving adherence strategies can boost health outcomes and quality of life.
The findings will be presented at the European Association for the Study of Diabetes annual meeting in Vienna. Policymakers and healthcare providers may use the data to guide interventions that encourage patients to continue treatment.
