BMJ Review Finds Rapid Weight Regain After Stopping GLP‑1 Weight‑Loss Drugs

Overview

• Pooling 37 studies with more than 9,000 participants, the review found average losses of about 15 kg on GLP‑1 drugs such as semaglutide and tirzepatide, with roughly 10 kg regained within a year after stopping and a return to baseline projected in about 18 months.
• Regain after discontinuation was estimated at around 0.8 kg per month, roughly four times faster than weight regain following diet and exercise programs, which averaged about 0.1 kg per month.
• Cardiovascular markers including blood pressure and cholesterol trended back toward pre‑treatment levels in approximately 16 months after cessation.
• Researchers and manufacturers emphasize obesity’s chronic nature as data show high discontinuation rates near 50% within a year, often linked to side effects and monthly costs reported above $1,000 in the U.S.
• Experts describe appetite rebound mechanisms and suggest nutrition‑focused tactics during tapering or cessation, including higher protein intake and eggs to bolster satiety, preserve muscle and address reported micronutrient shortfalls.