Fresh analysis reveals that patients who come off popular GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide or tirzepatide tend to recover shed pounds far faster than those who halt traditional diet and exercise plans.
Research printed in a major health publication demonstrates that while overweight people frequently drop about a fifth of their body weight while on the medication, the mass comes back at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"People using such treatments need to be aware of the danger of rapid rebound weight gain when the therapy concludes," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain implies a reversion to pre-treatment weight in about 18 months.
Analyzing Treatments
The analysis, which reviewed 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the effects of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
The team point out that people who shed pounds through diet and exercise typically experience a less rapid weight regain—around 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
Explaining the Rapid Regain
Experts suggest the way of the jabs accounts for the amplified weight return.
These medications mimic a natural hormone called GLP-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone levels several times higher than the body's typical production may cause the system to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and could lessen responsiveness to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement results in hunger is no longer kept in check, making overeating a significant risk."
A Lifelong Disease?
Medical guidelines suggest the injections for people with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians argue that, considering the high risk of relapse, the therapy might need to be ongoing.
This opinion is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the results "highlight the chronic character of obesity," comparing it to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
User Testimonies
Individuals who have stopped the medication explain a powerful resurgence of hunger.
"It felt as if something activating and I was suddenly extremely hungry," recalled a patient.
The struggle is compounded if individuals have not adopted permanent dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Widespread Use
Recent estimates suggest that millions of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with desire remaining high.
- Adoption is more common among females than males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many access the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Ultimately, clinicians stress that while the jabs are effective agents for weight loss, they are not a permanent cure and long-term success likely depends on combined behavioural support.
