Your central hub for GLP-1 research, clinical trials, and real-world outcome data. We summarise what the evidence actually shows—updated regularly.
Last updated: February 2026
Our approach: We prioritise RCTs and systematic reviews, distinguish clinical data from anecdotes, and update when major studies publish. Learn more about our review process →
What does the current body of GLP-1 evidence actually show? Here are the major takeaways from clinical trials and real-world studies as of 2026.
Significant weight loss is reproducible. Semaglutide 2.4mg (Wegovy) produces ~15% mean weight loss; tirzepatide (Zepbound) achieves ~20-22% in clinical trials when combined with lifestyle changes.
STEP 1 Trial (NEJM 2021)Cardiovascular benefits are emerging. The SELECT trial showed semaglutide reduced major adverse cardiovascular events by 20% in adults with obesity without diabetes—a landmark finding for preventive use.
SELECT Trial (NEJM 2023)Diabetes control is highly effective. GLP-1s improve HbA1c by 1-2% on average, with tirzepatide showing superior glycemic control compared to semaglutide in head-to-head trials.
SURPASS TrialsWeight regain after stopping is common. Studies show patients regain approximately two-thirds of lost weight within one year of discontinuation—raising questions about long-term treatment duration.
STEP 1 Extension StudyLong-term safety profile is reassuring for most patients. Four-year data from STEP 5 and ongoing registries show GLP-1s remain well-tolerated overall, though rare risks (gallbladder, pancreatitis) require vigilance and ongoing monitoring.
STEP 5 (4-year data)The evidence base for GLP-1 medications has grown substantially. Here are the landmark trials that inform clinical practice and our understanding of these drugs.
The STEP trials established semaglutide 2.4mg as a breakthrough for obesity treatment, demonstrating 15-17% weight loss across diverse populations including those with diabetes, heart failure, and after initial weight loss.
What it means: Semaglutide works consistently across patient groups, making it broadly applicable for obesity treatment.
View on PubMedSURMOUNT trials showed tirzepatide achieved up to 22.5% weight loss at the highest dose—the largest reduction seen with any approved medication. Results were consistent in people with and without type 2 diabetes.
What it means: Dual GIP/GLP-1 agonism may offer enhanced efficacy for patients who need maximum weight loss.
View on PubMedThis landmark trial showed semaglutide reduced heart attacks, strokes, and cardiovascular death by 20% in adults with obesity but without diabetes—the first evidence of CV benefit independent of diabetes status.
What it means: GLP-1s may become standard preventive therapy for cardiovascular risk, not just weight/diabetes management.
View on PubMedFLOW demonstrated semaglutide slowed kidney disease progression by 24% in patients with type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease, leading to early trial termination due to clear benefit.
What it means: GLP-1s offer kidney protection—expanding their value for patients with diabetes-related complications.
View StudyLarge pharmacy and insurance claims databases show real-world weight loss is often 5-10% lower than clinical trials, reflecting variable adherence, dose titration challenges, and diverse patient populations. Estimates vary by dataset and methodology.
What it means: Clinical trial results represent best-case scenarios; real-world outcomes vary based on individual circumstances.
Understanding the safety profile of GLP-1 medications is essential for informed decision-making. Here's what clinical trials and post-marketing surveillance reveal.
Gastrointestinal effects are the most common. Nausea (40-50%), vomiting (20-30%), diarrhea (20-30%), and constipation occur frequently but typically improve with gradual dose titration and diminish over weeks.
Gallbladder events occur at higher rates. Clinical trials show 1-3% incidence of gallstones or cholecystitis—roughly double the placebo rate. Rapid weight loss itself increases gallbladder risk.
Pancreatitis risk is low but monitored. Acute pancreatitis occurs in approximately 0.1-0.3% of patients. Recent large observational studies suggest a small, time-limited increase in risk, particularly in the first 6-12 months. Symptoms include severe abdominal pain and require immediate medical evaluation.
Thyroid tumour warnings are precautionary. Medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) risk is based on rodent studies; human data has not confirmed increased risk, but GLP-1s are contraindicated in patients with personal/family history of MTC or MEN2.
Discontinuation rates range from 5-15%. Most patients who stop do so due to GI side effects in the first 8-12 weeks; those who tolerate initial titration generally continue successfully.
Want more detail? Read our comprehensive GLP-1 side effects guide covering what to expect, when to seek help, and how to manage common issues.
Beyond clinical trials, we track patterns from Reddit communities, patient forums, and online discussions to understand what real users experience. This is anecdotal data—not clinical evidence—but it reveals practical insights that trials don't capture.
Appetite changes are often described as transformative. Users frequently report that "food noise" (constant thoughts about eating) disappears—many describe this as more impactful than the scale changes.
GI side effects dominate early discussions. First-month posts focus heavily on nausea management strategies, food aversions, and constipation remedies. Most report improvement by month 2-3.
Cost and access are persistent frustrations. Insurance denials, prior authorization delays, and pharmacy shortages are among the most frequent complaint topics across communities.
Plateau concerns emerge at months 4-6. Users commonly report weight loss slowing or stalling after initial rapid progress—leading to questions about dose increases and realistic expectations.
Long-term users emphasise lifestyle integration. Those on GLP-1s for 12+ months increasingly discuss exercise, protein intake, and building sustainable habits—recognising medication as a tool, not a complete solution.
Our methodology: We periodically sample and code public posts from Reddit and other forums to identify recurring themes. We do not track or analyse individual users.
Note: These patterns are aggregated observations from public forums and do not represent clinical outcomes or medical advice.
For journalists and researchers: We're building structured GLP-1 experience datasets from aggregated community discussions. Contact us if you'd like access.
GLP-1 cost, pricing, and access remain the biggest barriers to treatment for most patients. Understanding GLP-1 pricing in 2026 means navigating brand-name list prices, compounded alternatives, telehealth programs, and insurance coverage—each with different trade-offs.
Brand-name GLP-1s cost $900-$1,600/month without insurance. Wegovy, Ozempic, and Zepbound list prices remain high, though manufacturer savings cards can reduce costs for commercially insured patients.
Compounded semaglutide/tirzepatide ranges $150-$500/month. Available during FDA-declared shortages, compounded versions offer lower costs but aren't FDA-approved and vary in quality standards.
Insurance coverage is expanding but inconsistent. Many employer plans and some state Medicaid programs now cover anti-obesity medications, but Medicare Part D explicitly excludes weight-loss drugs (though diabetes indications may be covered).
Telehealth providers have simplified access. Online platforms offer consultations, prescriptions, and medication delivery—often faster than traditional healthcare routes. Quality and pricing vary significantly; always verify providers prescribe FDA-approved medications and have licensed clinicians on staff. In 2025/26, some telehealth programs advertise headline prices as low as ~$200/month for select doses, though most patients face higher ongoing costs.
Compare your options: Compare GLP-1 providers side-by-side to find the right fit for your budget and needs.
Get matched: Take our 2-minute quiz for a personalised shortlist based on your priorities.
See also: Henry Meds review · Hims & Hers review · Ro review
Data-informed editorial perspectives that go beyond the numbers. These aren't basic FAQs—they're deeper explorations of what GLP-1 medications mean for individuals, healthcare, and society.
These pieces are opinionated but anchored in the evidence and real-world data summarised above.
How GLP-1 drugs could reshape how society understands food, responsibility, and nutritional harm—by making appetite visible as physiology, not willpower.
Comprehensive scenario-based analysis exploring what happens when millions fundamentally change their relationship with hunger—and what it means for healthcare, food industries, and culture.
What happens to food companies, restaurants, and grocery stores when a significant portion of the population simply eats less?
How health insurers are thinking about coverage—and what that reveals about healthcare economics.
Our research content is developed by health writers with backgrounds in medical journalism and reviewed against peer-reviewed literature and authoritative clinical guidelines.
Medical Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. Individual results vary, and the information presented may not apply to your specific situation.
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