New research indicates that patients who discontinue new GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on shed pounds at a significantly accelerated pace than those who end traditional lifestyle regimens.
Published data in a prominent medical journal points out that while overweight individuals frequently drop substantial amounts of their total mass while using the jabs, the mass is regained at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Users using these drugs need to be cognizant of the potential of quick weight regain when the medication concludes," stated researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery means a reversion to starting weight in about a year and a half.
Weighing Treatments
The analysis, which looked at dozens of studies involving thousands of participants, compared the outcomes of these new drugs with other pills.
Researchers point out that individuals who lose weight through dieting generally have a slower creep back—approximately 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Explaining the Fast Rebound
Nutrition scientists propose the way of the jabs is key to understanding the amplified rebound.
GLP-1 drugs copy a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Long-term administration of the hormone concentrations far above than the body's typical production could lead to the system to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also reduce responsiveness to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' leads to appetite is uncontrolled, making excessive eating a significant risk."
A Chronic Issue?
Medical guidelines suggest the injections for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals say that, due to the likelihood of relapse, the treatment might need to be ongoing.
This view is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who note that the findings "highlight the persistent character of obesity," akin to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
Patient Experiences
Individuals who have come off the jabs report a powerful return of appetite.
"I experienced a trigger activating and I was suddenly extremely hungry," said an individual.
The struggle is exacerbated if users have not adopted lasting dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Significant Use
Figures indicate that a significant number of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with demand remaining high.
- Adoption is more common among women than men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, experts emphasize that while the jabs are powerful tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent solution and lasting health benefits likely depends on combined behavioural changes.
