ArcaMax

A review in BMJ found that when folks have been on any weight-loss drug (for around 10 months) and then stop taking it, they returned to their baseline weight in 1.7 years. And if they were taking semaglutide or tirzepatide, they rebounded in 1.5 years.

That's pretty discouraging, especially since many folks want to discontinue these meds when they reach their target weight -- and less than 25% of users stay on any GLP-1 for a full year, whether they meet their goals or not. Well, a new study offers a way to reduce your prescribed routine and even increase your weight loss.

Research published in Obesity says that taking the medications at the same dose every two weeks allowed participants to retain their weight loss and even lose a bit more. The reduced-dose schedule of around 36 weeks saw patients' weight go from an average of 194 pounds before starting treatment to 163 pounds when they transitioned to the less-frequent dosing. And while taking the meds every two weeks, they lost four more pounds.

This may work because it gives your body a chance to adjust to a lower level of appetite suppression and stabilize insulin and glucose levels. Then, when you go off the medication, you can more easily use lifestyle changes to maintain your healthier weight. (Although I say stay on GLP-1s if you can -- they have so many additional positive benefits.) For more help managing your meds, losing weight and keeping it off, check out the info at 4YOUngevity.com.

Health pioneer Michael Roizen, M.D., is chief wellness officer emeritus at the Cleveland Clinic and author of four No. 1 New York Times bestsellers. Check out his latest, "The Great Age Reboot: Cracking the Longevity Code for a Younger Tomorrow," and find out more at www.4YOUngevity.com. Email your health and wellness questions to Dr. Mike at questions@4YOUngevity.com.

(c)2026 Michael Roizen, M.D.

Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.

(c) 2026 Michael Roizen, M.D. Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.