New research indicates that patients who stop using popular GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide or tirzepatide may regain shed pounds far faster than those who stop conventional diet and exercise regimens.
Findings released in a major medical journal points out that while obese people frequently drop a large proportion of their body weight while on the medication, the mass returns at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"People using such treatments should be aware of the risk of rapid rebound weight gain when the medication ends," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain implies a reversion to original mass in about one and a half years.
Comparing Therapies
The research, which looked at dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the results of GLP-1 agonists with conventional dieting.
Researchers point out that people who shed pounds through diet and exercise generally have a less rapid creep back—approximately 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
The Reason for the Fast Regain
Doctors suggest the mode of action of the injections accounts for the accelerated regain.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 levels several times higher than normal might result in the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and could lessen sensitivity to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement leads to hunger is no longer kept in check, making overeating a significant risk."
A Lifelong Issue?
The NHS advise the jabs for people with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals argue that, considering the likelihood of relapse, the treatment is often life-long.
This perspective is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the results "underscore the long-term nature of obesity," comparing it to managing diseases like hypertension.
Patient Experiences
Users who have stopped the jabs describe a powerful return of hunger.
"I experienced a trigger activating and you're instantly extremely hungry," recalled a patient.
The struggle is exacerbated if individuals have not developed permanent lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Growing Interest
Recent estimates show that millions of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with desire continuing to grow.
- Adoption is more common among women compared to males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, experts caution that while these medications are powerful tools for weight loss, they are not a standalone solution and maintained weight loss likely depends on combined lifestyle management.
