Stopping GLP-1 drugs erodes their heart benefit, veterans study suggests

People with type 2 diabetes who stopped GLP-1 medicines such as Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro or Zepbound appear to lose much of their cardiovascular protection, according to a study in BMJ Medicine (21 September) by researchers at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, reported by SciBeat on 10 October.

Key findings

• The team followed 333,687 US veterans for up to three years, reassessing treatment every six months. About 26% of GLP-1 users stopped entirely.
• Continuous use for three years was linked to an 18% lower risk of major cardiovascular events versus sulfonylureas.
• One year off treatment was associated with a 14% higher risk, and two years off with a 22% higher risk, compared with staying on the drugs. Stopping before 18 months produced no significant benefit by study end.

Limitations

This is an observational study: it shows associations, not cause and effect, and people who stop treatment may differ in health, cost or side effects. Veterans are mostly older men, so results may not apply to everyone. Do not change medication without talking to a doctor.