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Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists are effective treatments for obesity, but discontinuation is common due to cost, insurance coverage limitations, side effects, patient preference and other factors—and often leads to rapid weight regain. Results from a pilot randomized trial, published in Obesity Science & Practice, suggest that structured support may attenuate early weight gain after GLP-1 cessation.

In the trial, 39 adults with prior GLP-1-induced weight loss were randomly assigned to four months of usual care, a digital wellness application or medically tailored meals beginning at the time of GLP-1 cessation.

Surveys showed that diet quality, perceived health, adherence and satisfaction did not differ significantly by group, though some estimates suggested possible trends favoring the wellness application.

Relative to the control group, the other groups experienced less weight gain. Over four months, participants in the control group gained an estimated 10.75% of their body weight, compared with 3.60% in the wellness application group and 3.58% in the medically tailored meals group.

"People invest significant time and effort in improving their health and achieving weight loss," said corresponding author Kelseanna Hollis-Hansen, Ph.D., MPH, of Tufts University Food is Medicine Institute.

"We need evidence-based strategies to support them if and when they discontinue GLP-1 medication, so they can maintain those gains and continue building long-term health, vitality and well-being."

Preventing Weight Regain After GLP‑1 Therapy Discontinuation: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial, Obesity Science & Practice (2026).

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