Two studies evaluate maintenance therapy options after achieving weight-loss goals on GLP drugs

TWO STUDIES EVALUATE MAINTENANCE THERAPY OPTIONS AFTER ACHIEVING WEIGHT-LOSS GOALS ON GLP DRUGS

Oral Foundayo and reduced-dose injections were effective in maintaining weight loss

Texas Telemedicine Doctor
May 2026

Many patients who have been successful with GLP-1 therapies such as semaglutide (Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Zepbound) wonder what the next steps are after they reach their weight-loss goals. Studies have shown that patients who stop the medications often regain the weight. Navigating the transition from the active weight-loss phase to long-term maintenance is critical to sustaining metabolic improvements and preserving progress.

Two recent trials evaluated different maintenance-phase options after achieving significant weight loss on GLP-1 injections. The SURMOUNT-MAINTAIN trial enrolled patients who had already achieved roughly 20% weight loss on Zepbound. Participants were then randomized into three groups: staying on their maximum dose, tapering down to a 5 mg dose, or placebo. After 52 weeks, those who remained on the maximum dose maintained a total weight change of -21.9% from their starting weight. The group that moved to the 5 mg dose also fared well, maintaining a -16.6% weight loss. In contrast, those who switched to placebo regained significant weight, ending the study with only a -9.9% change from baseline. Another study, ATTAIN-MAINTAIN, explored switching from Zepbound or injectable Wegovy to once-daily oral Foundayo (orforglipron) or placebo. The study found that patients switching to Foundayo maintained approximately 75% to 80% of their previous weight loss, whereas those on placebo maintained only 37% to 49%.

These studies provide valuable information on the options available after achieving weight loss goals. The data suggests that while staying on the full dose of medication is the most effective way to prevent regain, it is not the only path forward. For Zepbound patients who find the higher doses difficult to tolerate or afford, the SURMOUNT-MAINTAIN trial confirms that the lower 5 mg dose is an effective middle ground. The ATTAIN-MAINTAIN study showed that oral Foundayo can help maintain a majority of the weight loss achieved with Zepbound and injectable Wegovy. Another option that works for some is increasing the dosing interval between injections. Ultimately, the goal is to find a sustainable maintenance plan that fits your lifestyle and health needs.