New research indicates that people who stop using blockbuster GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide or tirzepatide may regain lost weight far faster than those who stop traditional diet and exercise programs.
Research printed in a prominent medical journal points out that while overweight individuals can lose a large proportion of their body weight while using the jabs, the mass returns at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Users buying such drugs need to be aware of the potential of rapid weight regain when the treatment is stopped," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain suggests a reversion to starting mass in about one and a half years.
Analyzing Treatments
The study, which examined 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the outcomes of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
Scientists emphasize that individuals who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone typically have a less rapid creep back—around 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
Explaining the Rapid Rebound
Nutrition scientists propose the mechanism of the injections is key to understanding the heightened rebound.
The injections mimic a natural hormone called GLP-1, which helps regulate hunger.
"Artificially providing the hormone concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production might result in the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and could reduce responsiveness to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Discontinuation of this medication leads to hunger is unsuppressed, making excessive eating much more probable."
A Lifelong Issue?
Health authorities suggest the injections for people with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
Many experts contend that, due to the significant potential of weight regain, the therapy should be considered long-term.
This view is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who note that the results "highlight the persistent character of excess weight," comparing it to managing diseases like diabetes.
User Experiences
Users who have stopped the medication describe a intense return of hunger.
"It felt as if something flipping and you become ravenous," recalled a patient.
The struggle is exacerbated if users have not established lasting dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Significant Adoption
Recent estimates show that a significant number of people in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with interest remaining high.
- Adoption is more common among women compared to men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest usage rates.
- Many obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Finally, researchers stress that while these medications are effective tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent fix and long-term success hinges on ongoing behavioural management.
