A recent study reveals that patients who stop using new GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide or tirzepatide tend to recover lost weight at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop conventional diet and exercise programs.
Findings released in a major medical journal demonstrates that while obese people can lose about a fifth of their body weight while on the medication, the mass is regained at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Users buying these treatments must be informed of the danger of fast rebound weight gain when the treatment is stopped," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery suggests a return to original mass in about a year and a half.
Weighing Treatments
The study, which looked at 37 of trials involving thousands of participants, compared the effects of the injectable medications with other pills.
Researchers emphasize that people who lose weight through diet and exercise usually have a less rapid creep back—perhaps 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
The Reason for the Fast Rebound
Experts propose the mechanism of the jabs explains the accelerated weight return.
GLP-1 drugs copy a natural hormone called GLP-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production could lead to the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and could reduce sensitivity to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement means hunger is unsuppressed, making binge eating much more probable."
A Lifelong Disease?
Health authorities advise the jabs for individuals with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians say that, considering the high risk of weight regain, the treatment is often ongoing.
This view is supported by drug manufacturers, who say that the findings "underscore the long-term character of obesity," comparing it to managing conditions like diabetes.
Patient Experiences
People who have discontinued the medication report a sudden return of cravings.
"I experienced a switch flipping and you become starving," said one woman.
The struggle is exacerbated if users have not established lasting dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Significant Adoption
Recent estimates suggest that millions of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with demand continuing to grow.
- Use is higher among women than males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
In conclusion, clinicians stress that while the jabs are potent tools for weight loss, they are not a magic fix and lasting health benefits likely depends on ongoing behavioural support.
