This record provides bibliographic details and links to the original research. An editorial study breakdown is not available.
What the researchers found
GLP-1 receptor agonists (semaglutide, liraglutide, tirzepatide, exenatide) show sustained weight loss and acceptable safety profiles across trials lasting 40-120 weeks. GI side effects are the most common adverse events. Obesity should be treated as a chronic condition requiring long-term medication.
Why it matters
Compiles the long-term evidence supporting GLP-1RAs for obesity, reinforcing that these drugs maintain efficacy over years and that obesity management is a long-term commitment.
The numbers in context
Studies from 2018-2025. Treatment durations 40-120 weeks. Agents: semaglutide, liraglutide, tirzepatide, exenatide. Populations: adults with/without T2D, adolescents with severe obesity. Sustained weight loss. GI side effects most common.
How the study worked
Systematic review of high-quality RCTs evaluating long-term efficacy and safety of GLP-1RAs for obesity (2018-2025). Assessed weight loss, glycemic control, and adverse events.
Who was studied
Adults with and without T2D, and adolescents with severe obesity
What this study cannot tell us
Limited follow-up beyond 2 years. Population diversity in available trials is limited. Real-world generalizability uncertain. Weight regain after cessation not fully characterized across all agents.
Read the original research
Weight Loss That Lasts: Reviewing the Long-Term Impact of GLP-1 Receptor Agonists.
Cureus, 17(7), e88334
Citation
Shah, Md Yasir; Mohammad, Ahmad; Bashir Ahmed Samejo, Rabia; Rana, Siddharth; Singla, Shivam; Aurangzeb, Raja Irsalan; Tariq, Muhammad M; Zamir, Muhammad Hamza; Farooq, Umer; Aurangzeb, Raja Faizan; Singla, Bhavna; Rehman, Abdur. (2025). Weight Loss That Lasts: Reviewing the Long-Term Impact of GLP-1 Receptor Agonists.. Cureus, 17(7), e88334. https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.88334