Cleveland Clinic study on weight loss injectable medications and what you need to know

A new Cleveland Clinic analysis looked at how popular injectable medications for obesity (notably semaglutide and tirzepatide) perform in everyday clinical practice versus tightly controlled trials. The results? Patients in the real world tend to lose less weight than those in randomized clinical trials, largely because many patients stop treatment early or stay on lower maintenance doses. Importantly, those who stick with therapy and titrate to effective doses lose more. Dr. Alexander Shapsis of Endoslim Clinic at Atlantic Gastroenterology, Brooklyn, New York, breaks down the findings to help you better understand the place of weight loss injectable medications in the arena of health and wellness.

Six things to know about injectable medications for weight loss, as found by a Cleveland Clinic study

1) Real-world weight loss is still meaningful

In the Cleveland Clinic study, average weight loss at one year was lower than the 15% – 21% reported in trials, in part because of early discontinuation and lower dosing. This gap highlights a key factor you can control: staying on therapy as tolerated. 

2) Adherence closes the distance

Across reviews, results begin to approach clinical-trial outcomes among patients who remain adherent and reach therapeutic doses. This is clear evidence that the medicines work best when you can actually stay on them. A coordinated plan to manage side effects, insurance, and dose ramps makes a big difference. 

3) The benefits go beyond the scale

For patients with prediabetes in the Cleveland Clinic study, glycemic control improved when patients maintained therapy, reinforcing that GLP-1/GIP-based injectables are not just “cosmetic” but metabolic. Even 5% – 10% weight loss delivers reductions in blood pressure, cholesterol, and liver fat.

4) Amazing results when paired with the right care team

Trials of these medications routinely show double-digit average weight loss (roughly mid-teens for semaglutide and up to around 20% for tirzepatide), but the day-to-day success hinges on the care model: slow titration to minimize GI side effects, nutrition coaching, activity plans, and proactive support for coverage issues. With that structure, many patients achieve results.

5) Determining candidacy

Adults with overweight or obesity per FDA indications who haven’t achieved sufficient results with lifestyle changes may benefit, particularly if weight is impacting conditions like prediabetes, fatty liver disease, knee/hip pain, or sleep apnea. Dr. Alexander Shapsis can review your medications and history to minimize interactions and tailor a plan that fits your life.

Are you ready to explore a medical weight-management plan in Brooklyn?

Dr. Alexander Shapsis at Endoslim Clinic of Atlantic Gastroenterology, Brooklyn, New York, offers personalized guidance on modern anti-obesity therapies, including GLP-1/GIP injectable options, with practical strategies to manage side effects, navigate insurance, and build a sustainable nutrition-and-activity plan around your life. Call today to schedule a consultation and learn whether an injectable medication is right for you!

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