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Real-World Use of Semaglutide for Weight Management: Dose Titration, Discontinuation Patterns and Weight Changes
Mie Dyberg Skandov1, Katrine McLain Christensen1, Dagmar Abelone Dalin1
1Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Copenhagen University Hospital-Bispebjerg, Copenhagen, Denmark.
Diabetes, Obesity & Metabolism
|July 8, 2026
Summary
Semaglutide for weight loss shows significant real-world effectiveness, with a mean 13.6% weight reduction after 12 months. However, many patients discontinue treatment or use lower doses than recommended.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Pharmacology
- Public Health
Background:
- Semaglutide injections for weight management were introduced in Denmark in December 2022.
- Pre-marketing studies indicated high efficacy with adherence to treatment and dose titration.
- Real-world data is needed to understand its use in primary care settings.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the real-world utilization of semaglutide for weight management.
- To analyze dose titration patterns, discontinuation rates, and effectiveness on body weight.
- To compare clinical practice with approved labeling in adults with overweight or obesity.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective, observational study in a Danish general practice (December 2022 - May 2024).
- Included 206 adults prescribed semaglutide for weight management.
- Primary outcome: relative mean body weight change at 12 months for those not discontinuing treatment.
Main Results:
- Mean baseline weight was 105 kg; 76% of participants were women.
- After 12 months, 38% discontinued permanently, 15% temporarily, and 48% continued treatment.
- Mean weight loss was -13.6% for those who completed 12 months without discontinuation.
Conclusions:
- Semaglutide for weight management is frequently discontinued in real-world practice.
- Dose titration is often slower and maintenance doses are lower than in approved labeling.
- Despite discontinuation and lower doses, substantial weight loss was observed in patients who continued treatment.
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