A recent study indicates that individuals who come off popular GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on lost weight at a significantly accelerated pace than those who end traditional diet and exercise programs.
Research printed in a major health publication shows that while overweight individuals frequently drop a large proportion of their body weight while on the medication, the mass returns at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Individuals buying such medications should be aware of the risk of rapid weight regain when the medication concludes," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery implies a reversion to original weight in about one and a half years.
Weighing Therapies
The research, which examined 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the results of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
The team note that people who lose weight through diet and exercise typically have a more gradual weight regain—perhaps 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
The Reason for the Quick Rebound
Experts suggest the way of the injections accounts for the heightened rebound.
The injections imitate a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing the hormone levels far above than the body's typical production may cause the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and could diminish sensitivity to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement results in hunger is no longer kept in check, making binge eating much more probable."
A Lifelong Issue?
The NHS suggest the injections for people with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Professionals say that, considering the significant potential of relapse, the treatment should be considered ongoing.
This view is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who say that the results "emphasize the persistent character of obesity," akin to managing diseases like hypertension.
User Accounts
Users who have discontinued the jabs report a powerful return of hunger.
"It felt as if a trigger that goes on and you become starving," said a patient.
This difficulty is worsened if users have not developed lasting lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Growing Interest
Recent estimates show that a significant number of adults in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with demand continuing to grow.
- Use is more common among females than males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest usage rates.
- Many obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Ultimately, clinicians stress that while these medications are powerful tools for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent cure and maintained weight loss likely depends on combined behavioural support.
