A recent study indicates that people who stop using popular GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide or tirzepatide tend to recover shed pounds much more quickly than those who halt traditional lifestyle programs.
Findings released in a major health publication demonstrates that while obese people can lose about a fifth of their body weight while on the medication, the weight returns at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Users using such treatments need to be aware of the potential of fast rebound weight gain when the treatment concludes," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain suggests a return to pre-treatment mass within about a year and a half.
Weighing Therapies
The study, which looked at 37 of trials involving thousands of patients, compared the outcomes of GLP-1 agonists with conventional dieting.
Researchers emphasize that people who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone generally experience a slower weight regain—approximately 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
The Reason for the Rapid Regain
Experts suggest the mode of action of the jabs is key to understanding the accelerated weight return.
The injections mimic a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates appetite.
"Long-term administration of the hormone levels far above than normal may cause the body to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and may also lessen sensitivity to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Withdrawal of this medication leads to appetite is uncontrolled, making excessive eating a significant risk."
A Lifelong Issue?
Medical guidelines suggest the jabs for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
Many experts argue that, given the significant potential of weight regain, the treatment should be considered long-term.
This view is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the results "highlight the long-term character of excess weight," comparing it to managing conditions like diabetes.
Patient Testimonies
Individuals who have stopped the jabs report a powerful resurgence of hunger.
"I experienced a switch flipping and you become starving," described one woman.
This difficulty is compounded if individuals have not adopted lasting dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Widespread Adoption
Survey data suggest that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with demand continuing to grow.
- Adoption is higher among females than men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many access the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, clinicians stress that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful agents for weight loss, they are not a permanent cure and long-term success hinges on combined lifestyle management.
