Just wanted to say — for anyone reading this Do the heart thread who is feeling discouraged: it gets better. The first few weeks are the hardest. Hang in there. 💪

As a healthcare provider, I want to add some clinical context to this discussion on Do the heart benefits go away if I stop.

Building on what tommy_boulder said — the evidence base here is well-established. The key publications to reference are from the FLOW program[1].

Key clinical points:

1. Efficacy is dose-dependent and typically requires 4-5 weeks to reach steady state
2. Side effect profile is predictable and usually manageable with standard protocols
3. Monitoring should include baseline labs and follow-up at 3-month intervals
4. Patient education significantly improves outcomes and adherence

Standard disclaimer: this is educational, not individualized medical advice.

carlos_SATX said:

The first few weeks are the hardest

Gonna push back on this one. Do the heart benefits go away if I is not that straightforward in my experience. I have been on this for 18 months and the reality is messier than the trials suggest.

Don't get me wrong — the medication works. But adherence is harder than people admit. We should be honest about that.

100%. My provider said the same thing about Do the heart.

Reading this thread on Do the heart benefits go hits close to home. Dad of 2 checking in — I started at 277 lbs and felt like I would tried everything.

13 months on tirz and I am a different person. Not just the 52 lbs lost — my energy, my mood, my relationship with food. All transformed.

If you are on the fence about Do the heart — take the leap. It was the best health decision I have ever made. ❤️