A recent study indicates that people who stop using popular GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide or tirzepatide tend to recover lost weight at a significantly accelerated pace than those who halt traditional diet and exercise plans.
Published data in a major medical journal demonstrates that while obese people can lose about a fifth of their total mass while on the medication, the mass returns at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"People buying these treatments need to be aware of the potential of quick weight regain when the medication concludes," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain means a return to starting weight in about one and a half years.
Weighing Therapies
The research, which reviewed 37 of studies involving thousands of patients, compared the outcomes of the injectable medications with other pills.
Scientists point out that individuals who shed pounds through dieting usually have a more gradual creep back—around 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
The Reason for the Quick Rebound
Doctors suggest the mode of action of the drugs is key to understanding the amplified weight return.
These medications imitate a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 levels several times higher than the body's typical production might result in the body to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and could lessen sensitivity to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' leads to appetite is unsuppressed, making binge eating far more likely."
A Chronic Issue?
Health authorities advise the injections for people with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians contend that, considering the likelihood of weight regain, the treatment is often life-long.
This opinion is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the results "underscore the long-term nature of obesity," comparing it to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
Patient Testimonies
People who have discontinued the medication explain a powerful resurgence of hunger.
"It was like a switch activating and I was suddenly extremely hungry," said an individual.
This challenge is exacerbated if individuals have not established sustainable lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Growing Use
Recent estimates suggest that a significant number of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with demand being substantial.
- Adoption is higher among women compared to men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Finally, experts stress that while these medications are powerful agents for weight loss, they are not a permanent solution and maintained weight loss likely depends on integrated lifestyle changes.
