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Stopping GLP-1s May Lead to Weight Regain In Less Than 2 Years, Review Finds

Rubenhair Latvia
3 min read
01.01.2026
Stopping GLP-1s May Lead to Weight Regain In Less Than 2 Years, Review Finds

**Weight Loss and GLP-1 Medications: What You Need to Know** Are you considering using glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) medications like semaglutide or tirzepatide to help with weight loss?

**Weight Loss and GLP-1 Medications: What You Need to Know**

Are you considering using glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) medications like semaglutide or tirzepatide to help with weight loss? While these medications have been shown to be effective in helping patients lose between 15% and 20% of their body weight, research suggests that people who stop taking them tend to regain weight quickly.

A recent study published in The BMJ found that people who stopped taking GLP-1 medications regained an average of 8.3 kilograms (about 18 pounds) within an average of 1.7 years. This is concerning, as it suggests that the metabolic improvements seen while on these medications may fade quickly after treatment is discontinued.

Experts advise that slowly tapering off GLP-1 medications rather than quitting abruptly can help minimize weight regain. Additionally, incorporating supportive changes in diet, exercise, and lifestyle habits is crucial for long-term weight management.

**The Importance of Comprehensive Weight Management**

The researchers who conducted this study suggest that a more comprehensive approach may be needed to achieve lasting weight loss with GLP-1 medications. This includes combining medication treatment with behavioral supports like diet and exercise.

Weight Regain After Stopping GLP-1 Medications

The study analyzed data from 37 studies involving over 9,341 adults with overweight or obesity who used GLP-1 medications for at least 8 weeks. The results showed that people lost an average of 18 pounds while on medication, but regained their weight at a rate of about 1 pound per month after treatment was discontinued.

Interestingly, newer drugs like semaglutide and tirzepatide were associated with an even faster rate of regain: about 2 pounds per month with a return to baseline in about 1.5 years.

What This Means for You

If you're considering using GLP-1 medications for weight loss, it's essential to understand the potential risks and benefits. While these medications can be effective in helping patients lose weight, the long-term effects of stopping treatment are concerning. By incorporating supportive lifestyle changes and gradually tapering off medication, you may be able to minimize weight regain and achieve lasting weight management.

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