Stopping Weight-Loss Drugs Like Ozempic Can Quickly Erase Heart Benefits

GLP-1 drugs, used for blood sugar control and weight loss, provide cardiovascular protection.

About one in eight U.S. adults use semaglutide or tirzepatide.

A three-year study of more than 333,000 U.S. veterans with type 2 diabetes found a six-month break was linked to a meaningful rise in major cardiovascular events, with longer gaps tied to greater risk.

After two years off therapy, risk of heart attack, stroke, and death rose up to 22%, largely offsetting the cardiovascular benefits gained while on the drugs.

Restarting the medications restored some protection but only partially; stopping GLP-1s has effects beyond weight gain.