Discontinuation of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists among US adults: A national survey
BACKGROUND: Although many people discontinue glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs), the reasons for discontinuation are unclear. OBJECTIVE: To identify self-reported reasons for GLP-1 RA discontinuation among US adults. METHODS: Cross-sectional survey of US adults fielded in June 2025 using Ipsos Omnibus and incorporating survey weights calibrated to census benchmarks. We included individuals who initiated a GLP-1 RA between January 2022 and June 2025 and subsequently discontinued therapy. Outcomes included duration of use, self-reported reason(s) for discontinuation, medication source, out-of-pocket payment, and insurance coverage. Descriptive statistics and chi-square tests for statistical significance were used. RESULTS: = 0.009). Neither diabetes status nor GLP-1 RA source was significantly associated with early discontinuation (<6 months). CONCLUSIONS: In this national survey, most US adults who stopped GLP-1 RAs did so within 6 months because of cost, adverse effects, lack of coverage, or having achieved a weight loss goal. Differences in coverage, costs, and sourcing are modifiable targets that may decrease high rates of GLP-1 RA discontinuation.
Authors
- Joseph Levy
- Gerard F. Anderson (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1845-1523)
- Michael J. DiStefano (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5021-5347)
- Juliet Zon
- G Caleb Alexander
- Erik G. Olson
Institutions
- Johns Hopkins University (US)
- Ipsos (United States) (US)
- University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus (US)
Publication Details
- Journal
- Journal of Managed Care & Specialty Pharmacy
- Published
- 2026-07-27
- DOI
- https://doi.org/10.18553/jmcp.2026.32.8.903
- Primary Topic
- Diabetes Treatment and Management
- Type
- article
- Field-Weighted Citation Impact
- 0.00