A recent study suggests that individuals who stop using new GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide or tirzepatide tend to recover shed pounds far faster than those who halt conventional diet and exercise regimens.
Findings released in a major health publication points out that while overweight people frequently drop about a fifth of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the weight is regained at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Individuals buying such medications need to be informed of the risk of quick rebound weight gain when the treatment concludes," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery means a return to starting mass within about one and a half years.
Comparing Therapies
The analysis, which reviewed 37 of trials involving thousands of participants, compared the results of these new drugs with other pills.
The team point out that people who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone usually experience a less rapid creep back—approximately 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Explaining the Fast Rebound
Experts propose the mechanism of the drugs accounts for the accelerated regain.
GLP-1 drugs copy a natural hormone called GLP-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 concentrations far above than normal might result in the system to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and may also diminish sensitivity to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement results in appetite is no longer kept in check, making overeating a significant risk."
A Lifelong Issue?
Health authorities suggest the jabs for people with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians say that, due to the significant potential of relapse, the treatment might need to be ongoing.
This view is supported by drug manufacturers, who say that the findings "emphasize the chronic nature of obesity," comparing it to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
Patient Experiences
Users who have come off the medication explain a powerful resurgence of hunger.
"It felt as if something flipping and you become ravenous," recalled an individual.
This difficulty is exacerbated if individuals have not developed sustainable dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Growing Use
Figures show that a significant number of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with desire remaining high.
- Use is more common among females compared to males.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Ultimately, clinicians caution that while the jabs are powerful tools for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent cure and lasting health benefits relies on ongoing lifestyle support.
