Researchers found younger adults, men, and people in poorer regions stopped weight loss drugs at higher rates. Millions worldwide use drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy, yet half quit within a year, according to the analysis.
Study Reveals High Dropout Rates
Danish researchers studied more than 77,000 people without diabetes who used anti-obesity drugs. They discovered 52 percent stopped within 12 months. Eighteen percent quit in three months, 31 percent in six months, and 42 percent by nine months.
“These medications cannot act as quick fixes,” said Reimar W. Thomsen, professor at Aarhus University. “They require consistent, long-term use.” He explained that all appetite control benefits vanish once treatment stops.
Cost and Side Effects Influence Decisions
The analysis showed younger patients under 30 were 48 percent more likely to stop treatment than those aged 45 to 59. People in low-income areas quit 14 percent more often than residents in wealthier regions.
Men and patients with chronic conditions also discontinued treatment more frequently. Many who previously used psychiatric or gastrointestinal medicines may have faced unpleasant side effects like nausea or vomiting.
A month of Ozempic in Denmark costs up to €313, and insurance rarely covers it without type 2 diabetes. In Germany, patients pay closer to €120. Researchers said the price gap limits access and contributes to early discontinuation.
Implications for Public Health
The findings, not yet published in a journal, will be presented at the European Association for the Study of Diabetes meeting in Vienna. Thomsen emphasized the urgent need for stronger support systems to help patients continue treatment.
“These medications reduce risks of heart disease, cancer, and even addiction,” he said. “With over half of adults in Europe overweight or obese, adherence could transform public health outcomes and quality of life.”
