A recent study indicates that people who come off popular GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on shed pounds much more quickly than those who stop traditional lifestyle plans.
Research printed in a major medical journal shows that while obese people frequently drop substantial amounts of their total mass while using the jabs, the weight returns at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"Users purchasing these treatments need to be informed of the risk of quick weight regain when the medication concludes," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery suggests a return to pre-treatment weight within about 18 months.
Weighing Treatments
The study, which looked at 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the effects of the injectable medications with older methods.
Researchers note that individuals who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone usually see a more gradual weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Understanding the Rapid Regain
Nutrition scientists propose the mode of action of the injections accounts for the accelerated rebound.
These medications imitate a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than normal may cause the system to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and could diminish responsiveness to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement leads to appetite is uncontrolled, making excessive eating a significant risk."
An Ongoing Issue?
Health authorities suggest the jabs for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
Professionals contend that, considering the high risk of relapse, the therapy should be considered long-term.
This opinion is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the results "emphasize the long-term nature of obesity," akin to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Accounts
People who have come off the medication explain a powerful resurgence of hunger.
"It felt as if something that goes on and I was suddenly extremely hungry," said one woman.
This difficulty is compounded if users have not adopted sustainable lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Significant Interest
Recent estimates indicate that millions of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with desire continuing to grow.
- Adoption is more common among women compared to men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Finally, clinicians stress that while the jabs are powerful tools for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent fix and long-term success hinges on ongoing lifestyle changes.
