New research suggests that individuals who come off new GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on reduced body mass far faster than those who halt traditional lifestyle programs.
Research printed in a major medical journal shows that while overweight people frequently drop a large proportion of their body weight while using the jabs, the weight comes back at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"People buying such drugs must be aware of the danger of fast rebound weight gain when the medication ends," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain suggests a reversion to pre-treatment mass within about a year and a half.
Weighing Approaches
The analysis, which examined 37 of trials involving thousands of patients, contrasted the outcomes of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
The team note that people who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone typically see a less rapid creep back—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
The Reason for the Rapid Regain
Experts propose the mode of action of the jabs accounts for the heightened rebound.
These medications copy a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of the hormone concentrations several times higher than normal might result in the system to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and could diminish sensitivity to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Stopping of this medication leads to appetite is uncontrolled, making excessive eating a significant risk."
An Ongoing Disease?
The NHS advise the jabs for people with obesity-related health risks, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals say that, considering the likelihood of relapse, the treatment is often ongoing.
This perspective is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who state that the results "highlight the chronic character of excess weight," akin to managing conditions like hypertension.
User Accounts
Individuals who have discontinued the medication explain a sudden return of cravings.
"It felt as if a switch activating and you're instantly starving," described a patient.
This challenge is worsened if users have not established lasting dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Growing Use
Figures show that a significant number of adults in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with desire remaining high.
- Use is more common among women than males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Finally, researchers stress that while the jabs are effective tools for weight loss, they are not a magic solution and long-term success hinges on integrated lifestyle changes.
