Study Finds Weight Regain Starts Eight Weeks After Stopping Anti-Obesity Drugs

A comprehensive meta-analysis of 11 studies involving over 2,400 participants has found that while anti-obesity medications (AOMs), including GLP-1 receptor agonists like Ozempic and Wegovy, effectively promote significant weight loss during treatment, weight regain typically begins around eight weeks after stopping the medication and continues for about 20 weeks before stabilizing. The extent of weight regain varies depending on the type of medication, lifestyle factors such as diet and exercise, and individual characteristics, with those treated with tirzepatide regaining nearly half of their lost weight after discontinuation. Despite lifestyle changes, the pattern of weight regain after stopping AOMs resembles that seen in patients after gastric bypass surgery, highlighting the challenge of maintaining weight loss long-term. Researchers emphasize the need for improved strategies to support sustained weight management once medication is stopped, as current treatments primarily aid short-term weight loss. The study controlled for factors like diabetes presence and lifestyle habits, but the underlying mechanisms causing weight regain remain unclear and warrant further investigation. These findings suggest that while AOMs are valuable tools for initial weight loss, long-term success requires more comprehensive approaches beyond medication alone.