New research reveals that people who discontinue blockbuster GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on lost weight far faster than those who stop conventional lifestyle regimens.
Published data in a major health publication points out that while obese people can lose about a fifth of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the mass comes back at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"People buying such treatments need to be aware of the danger of quick weight regain when the therapy concludes," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain suggests a return to pre-treatment mass in about one and a half years.
Comparing Treatments
The research, which looked at dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the outcomes of GLP-1 agonists with other pills.
Researchers point out that people who shed pounds through diet and exercise typically see a less rapid creep back—approximately 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
The Reason for the Fast Rebound
Nutrition scientists propose the mode of action of the drugs accounts for the accelerated regain.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which helps regulate hunger.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone levels several times higher than normal might result in the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and could reduce responsiveness to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement results in hunger is uncontrolled, making excessive eating a significant risk."
A Lifelong Issue?
Health authorities recommend the injections for people with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians say that, considering the high risk of relapse, the therapy might need to be life-long.
This opinion is echoed by drug manufacturers, who note that the findings "underscore the chronic nature of excess weight," akin to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
User Experiences
Users who have come off the medication explain a powerful return of appetite.
"It was like a trigger flipping and you're instantly starving," recalled one woman.
This challenge is compounded if individuals have not adopted permanent dietary or behavioural modifications during treatment.
Widespread Interest
Figures indicate that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with demand continuing to grow.
- Adoption is more common among women than men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
In conclusion, experts stress that while these medications are potent agents for shedding pounds, they are not a magic fix and maintained weight loss relies on ongoing lifestyle management.
