People who stop GLP-1 drugs regain weight faster.

A BMJ review found people who stop GLP-1 weight-loss drugs regained weight at about 0.4 kg per month, with modelling suggesting metabolic risk markers return to pre-treatment levels within two years.

A new review published in the BMJ looked at adults with overweight and obesity who used GLP-1 class weight-loss medications and then stopped treatment. The study compared outcomes after stopping drugs with outcomes after stopping behavioural weight-management programs. The findings are being discussed because of concerns about the health risks associated with weight regain, including diabetes and heart disease. Researchers also noted that many people discontinue GLP-1 medications within a year, often for cost or gastrointestinal side effects. What the review found: - People stopping weight-loss drugs regained on average about 0.4 kg per month, roughly 10 kilograms (22 pounds) in the first year after stopping. - Those who stopped medications regained weight almost four times faster than people who stopped diet or exercise programs. - Researchers used modelling that suggested markers linked to diabetes and heart disease would return to pre-treatment levels in less than two years after stopping treatment. - About half of people prescribed GLP-1 drugs discontinue within a year, commonly citing cost and gastrointestinal side effects. Summary: The BMJ review indicates that weight and metabolic gains achieved with GLP-1 medications often reverse quickly after treatment ends. The underlying reasons for the faster regain and what kinds of support would help people who stop treatment remain undetermined at this time.