Two-thirds of lost weight returned within a year of stopping, and that reframes every price comparison
The STEP-1 extension and SURMOUNT-4 both report regain on withdrawal. If treatment is ongoing, annual maintenance cost is the figure that matters.
The STEP-1 extension reported roughly two-thirds of the lost weight returned within a year of stopping. SURMOUNT-4 randomised participants to withdrawal or continuation and reported regain on placebo against continued loss on treatment.
The commercial consequence is the part most coverage skips. If treatment is ongoing, the number that decides a purchase is the annual cost at a maintenance dose, not an introductory month — and those are frequently different providers.
Full withdrawal data: what happens when you stop.
Filed by the Peptides Editorial research desk. Corrections: the corrections log.
Frequently asked questions
Does weight come back after stopping semaglutide?
The STEP-1 extension reported roughly two-thirds of the lost weight returned within a year of stopping.