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Study: Weight Regain Faster After Stopping Weight Loss Drugs

Published January 10, 2026, 10:10
Study: Weight Regain Faster After Stopping Weight Loss Drugs

People tend to regain weight quickly after stopping weight loss medications, and much faster than after ending various weight loss programs, according to a new systematic review from researchers at the Nuffield Primary Care Health Sciences Department of Oxford. The study, based on 37 studies with 9,341 adults, showed that weight increased by an average of 0.4 kg per month after stopping weight management drugs, leading to a return to initial weight within approximately 1.5 to 2 years. For newer drugs like semaglutide and tirzepatide, the regain was faster, averaging 0.8 kg per month. Researchers emphasize this isn't a failure of the drugs, but reflects the chronic, relapsing nature of obesity, and warn against short-term use without a more comprehensive approach.