Emerging Research Suggests Some May Be Able too Extend Time Between GLP-1 Injections
new York, NY - Recent findings suggest that individuals using GLP-1 medications for weight loss may be able to extend the time between injections – possibly to every other week – without significant weight regain, offering a possible path to longer-term affordability and access. While larger studies are needed to confirm these initial observations,experts are increasingly open to discussing individualized “de-escalation” strategies with patients.
GLP-1 receptor agonists like Ozempic and Wegovy have become popular for both managing type 2 diabetes and promoting weight loss. However, the high cost of these medications and potential insurance limitations often mean patients can only remain on them for a limited time. The average duration of GLP-1 use in the U.S. is currently around one year and two months.
Traditionally, medical societies have suggested indefinite continuation of GLP-1 therapy for sustained weight management.Though, research indicates a small percentage of individuals successfully discontinue the medication without regaining lost weight. New data suggests a wider group might be able to extend the dosing interval.
“There’s no standard of care for how to de-escalate therapy, and so different physicians have different experiences and practices,” explains Dr. Scott Biermann.
Dr. Fatima Pinto notes that prosperous extended dosing hinges on lifestyle factors. “Weight loss efforts are best maintained when people exercise frequently,” he says, referencing the National Weight Control Registry, were individuals maintain weight loss averaging one hour of exercise daily.Dr. Biermann also reports observing patients using GLP-1s less frequently – even as little as every two weeks – consistently engage in significant exercise.
Before altering any GLP-1 regimen, experts universally recommend consulting a healthcare provider. Dr. Pinto emphasizes a patient-centered approach. “Patient-centered medicine is the best medicine,” he states. he begins by reviewing a patient’s initial goals and progress, assessing improvements in areas like prediabetes reversal, fatty liver reduction, sleep quality, exercise habits, and diet.
If a patient has demonstrably improved their metabolic profile and achieved a healthy weight, Dr. Pinto is open to adjusting the dosing schedule,closely monitoring weight and muscle mass afterward. “If after a few months the patient increases muscle mass and their weight doesn’t change,amazing,right? If there is a rebound weight,we have a problem,” he says.
The ability to safely extend the time between GLP-1 injections could substantially impact access to these medications, allowing patients to make “expensive prescriptions” last longer and potentially maintain weight loss long-term. Though, experts caution that individual responses can vary based on age and liver/kidney function.
