Study Finds Cardiovascular Benefits of GLP-1 Drugs May Fade After Stopping Treatment
A large study has found that the cardiovascular benefits of GLP-1 receptor agonists—including popular weight-loss and diabetes drugs such as Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Zepbound—may disappear relatively quickly after patients stop taking the medications.
Researchers examined outcomes for patients who discontinued these treatments and found that after two years without the medication, they experienced a 22% higher risk of heart attack, stroke, and death compared with patients who remained on the drugs.
The findings suggest that the protective cardiovascular effects observed during treatment may require continuous medication to be maintained. Patients considering stopping GLP-1 therapy should discuss the potential risks with their healthcare providers, as the decision to discontinue may have implications beyond weight management and blood sugar control.
The study adds to growing evidence about the importance of adherence to GLP-1-based treatments and highlights the need for further research into the long-term effects of these medications on cardiovascular outcomes.