Fresh analysis suggests that patients who come off new GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide or tirzepatide tend to recover lost weight at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop traditional diet and exercise plans.
Published data in a major medical journal demonstrates that while obese individuals can lose substantial amounts of their body weight while on the medication, the mass is regained at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Individuals purchasing these treatments must be aware of the potential of rapid weight regain when the therapy is stopped," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain means a return to pre-treatment mass in about 18 months.
Weighing Therapies
The study, which reviewed dozens of trials involving thousands of participants, compared the outcomes of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
Scientists point out that people who lose weight through diet and exercise typically experience a less rapid weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
The Reason for the Quick Rebound
Experts suggest the way of the injections explains the amplified rebound.
The injections copy a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls hunger.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 levels several times higher than the body's typical production may cause the body to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and could lessen responsiveness to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement results in hunger is unsuppressed, making overeating much more probable."
An Ongoing Condition?
Health authorities advise the injections for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians contend that, due to the high risk of relapse, the treatment should be considered long-term.
This opinion is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who note that the results "underscore the chronic character of excess weight," comparing it to managing diseases like hypertension.
Patient Experiences
People who have stopped the jabs report a powerful resurgence of hunger.
"It felt as if something activating and you're instantly starving," recalled an individual.
This challenge is worsened if individuals have not established lasting dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Significant Use
Recent estimates indicate that millions of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with demand remaining high.
- Use is higher among females compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
In conclusion, clinicians stress that while the jabs are powerful agents for shedding pounds, they are not a magic fix and maintained weight loss hinges on combined lifestyle changes.
