Virta Health study validates approach as effective off-ramp from GLP-1s for weight loss

Virta Health has released groundbreaking, peer-reviewed data demonstrating the effectiveness of its personalised nutrition therapy in achieving sustained weight loss after discontinuation of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1s), including Ozempic. Published in Diabetes Therapy, the study reveals Virta's approach as a potent and sustainable alternative to GLP-1s, with weight not significantly increasing at 6 or 12 months post-deprescription. This stands in stark contrast to typical GLP-1 outcomes where patients often experience rapid blood sugar worsening and weight regain after discontinuation. Virta's approach proves to be a viable medication-free off-ramp, providing a robust alternative to the challenges associated with GLP-1s, such as their cost and potential side effects.

The study assessed two groups of Virta members with type 2 diabetes: those for whom GLP-1s were fully deprescribed and those where GLP-1s were continued. Both groups achieved significant and sustained weight loss at the one-year follow-up, with no notable differences between them. The findings challenge the common occurrence of weight regain after discontinuing GLP-1 therapy, highlighting Virta's personalised nutrition therapy as a powerful and sustainable solution. In response to these results, Virta is expanding its Sustainable Weight Loss solution, offering employers and payers responsible use of GLP-1s and individualised nutrition plans, further solidifying its commitment to delivering impactful weight loss without the need for continuous medication.

Virta's co-founder and CEO, Sami Inkinen, emphasised that their approach, based on a decade of experience, provides a drug-like impact without the drawbacks of continuous medication use. The expansion includes personalised journeys, enabling safe access to medications, and Virta's fees will be placed at risk for all customers, with performance targets tied to deprescription of GLP-1s and sustained weight loss post-deprescription. This marks a significant step towards offering a comprehensive and individualised approach to weight loss and metabolic health.