Medications like Wegovy and Zepbound have been hailed as game-changers for weight loss, offering significant improvements in both weight reduction and related health issues. Yet, despite their promise, studies show that a majority of patients stop taking them. A recent study examined the key factors behind discontinuation at three critical stages: initiation (starting the medication), implementation (reaching a therapeutic dose), and persistence (continuing long term). Let’s dive into the findings.
Many individuals never fill their prescriptions due to fears about side effects, misunderstandings about how the medications work, or stigma surrounding obesity treatment. Studies indicate that 91% of patients fail to fill their prescription within 60 days of receiving it.
How to Address It: Speak with your healthcare provider about potential side effects and how they can be managed. Remember, if the medication isn’t right for you, you can stop taking it.
Affordability remains a significant barrier. Some studies show that patients are more likely to discontinue treatment when insurance doesn’t cover their medication, particularly for newer options like GLP-1 receptor agonists.
How to Address It: Explore assistance programs or discuss alternative medications with your healthcare provider. Some insurance plans may reconsider coverage with additional documentation from your prescriber.
Many patients hesitate to take obesity medications due to societal pressure or personal beliefs that they should be able to lose weight without pharmaceutical help. This can lead to a reluctance to initiate treatment.
How to Address It: Recognize that obesity is a chronic medical condition, just like hypertension or diabetes, and requires long-term management. Medication is a tool—not an "easy way out."
Most obesity medications require a gradual increase in dosage over weeks or months. Some patients feel discouraged when they don’t see immediate results.
Reality Check: Research suggests that adherence is higher in those who experience early weight loss, but benefits often take time to appear. Working with a team of experts in behavior change can help individuals stay focused on long-term progress rather than immediate results.
Common issues like nausea, digestive discomfort, or headaches can make people stop prematurely. Clinical trials report discontinuation rates of 7.7% for semaglutide and 8.8% for tirzepatide due to side effects.
How to Address It: Side effects often improve with time. If they persist, adjusting the dosing schedule or using symptom management strategies (like smaller dose increases) can help. Having access to registered dietitians or healthcare professionals who specialize in obesity management can make a difference in helping individuals navigate these challenges and identify ways to manage symptoms effectively.
Obesity is a chronic condition, yet many individuals view weight loss medications as short-term solutions. Studies show that only 19% of patients remain on these medications after 12 months.
How to Address It: Think of these medications like those for hypertension or diabetes. If discontinued, weight regain is likely. A structured support system can reinforce the long-term nature of treatment and help individuals build sustainable habits that make adherence easier.
Some patients expect continuous weight loss and stop taking the medication when their weight stabilizes. However, even moderate reductions yield significant health benefits, such as improved blood pressure and mobility.
How to Address It: Recognize that weight stability is normal and a sign of effectiveness, not failure. Look beyond the scale and consider improved lab results and overall health. Support from professionals trained in behaviour change can help patients shift their focus from short-term numbers to long-term health improvements.
How to Address It: Regular check-ins with your healthcare provider can help you troubleshoot barriers. Planning for potential disruptions can make it easier to stay consistent.
By understanding the reasons behind discontinuation, you can prepare for challenges in advance and maximize the effectiveness of their treatment. The key is staying informed, addressing obstacles early, and thinking long-term.
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