New research reveals that individuals who discontinue new GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on reduced body mass at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop conventional diet and exercise programs.
Published data in a major health publication demonstrates that while obese people can lose a large proportion of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the weight comes back at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"People using such medications must be cognizant of the risk of rapid rebound weight gain when the treatment concludes," stated lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain means a return to pre-treatment mass in about one and a half years.
Analyzing Therapies
The study, which reviewed 37 of studies involving thousands of participants, contrasted the results of GLP-1 agonists with conventional dieting.
Scientists emphasize that people who shed pounds through diet and exercise usually have a less rapid creep back—around 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
Understanding the Fast Rebound
Experts believe the mechanism of the drugs explains the accelerated regain.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a natural hormone called GLP-1, which controls appetite.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 levels several times higher than the body's typical production may cause the system to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and may also lessen sensitivity to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Discontinuation of this GLP-1 'fix' leads to appetite is no longer kept in check, making overeating far more likely."
An Ongoing Condition?
The NHS advise the jabs for individuals with obesity-related health risks, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians argue that, due to the significant potential of relapse, the therapy might need to be life-long.
This opinion is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the findings "emphasize the long-term nature of obesity," akin to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Accounts
Users who have come off the jabs report a powerful return of hunger.
"It felt as if something activating and I was suddenly ravenous," described a patient.
The struggle is compounded if patients have not developed permanent lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Growing Interest
Figures suggest 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 greater among females compared to men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Finally, researchers emphasize that while the jabs are potent tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent cure and long-term success relies on ongoing behavioural changes.
