Know the limits
Weight lost during treatment may not stay off.
The plan after an initial result deserves a place in the first conversation. Ask what happens if treatment ends, including if the price changes.
Myth to test
Does finishing treatment lock in the weight loss?
Short answer
In the continuation trial, the group switched off tirzepatide regained weight during the next year.
See what the study actually compared
The SURMOUNT-4 comparison began after participants had completed a 36-week period on tirzepatide.
- Both percentages compare weight at the end of the next year with weight on the day the groups split.
- They use that day's weight as the starting point, after the first 36 weeks of treatment.
- A dummy shot is a comparison treatment without the study medicine.
After the study's treatment switch
Group switched to a dummy shot
After the switch to a dummy shot, average body weight rose by 14.0% over the next year.
Group that continued
For the group that continued tirzepatide, average body weight fell by another 5.5% in that period.
Right of the line shows a gain; left shows a loss. Each change uses weight on the day the groups split as its starting point.
Talk through a plan that can change
A study result opens questions. It does not set a personal end date or a lifelong schedule.
- How would we review whether treatment still fits?
- What would the plan be if I wanted to stop?
- What happens if coverage changes?
- How does cost affect the longer-term plan?
- What follow-up would we discuss if weight returns?