Fresh analysis suggests that people who discontinue new GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on shed pounds much more quickly than those who stop traditional lifestyle programs.
Findings released in a leading medical journal demonstrates that while obese people frequently drop about a fifth of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the weight comes back at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"People using such medications should be aware of the risk of fast weight regain when the medication is stopped," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery suggests a return to starting weight in about one and a half years.
Weighing Therapies
The study, which looked at dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the effects of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
The team note that individuals who shed pounds through diet and exercise generally have a less rapid creep back—perhaps 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
The Reason for the Quick Regain
Experts believe the mode of action of the injections accounts for the accelerated rebound.
These medications copy a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates hunger.
"Long-term administration of the hormone levels several times higher than the body's typical production could lead to the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and may also diminish responsiveness to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' means appetite is uncontrolled, making binge eating far more likely."
A Chronic Issue?
The NHS advise the injections for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians contend that, due to the significant potential of relapse, the therapy should be considered life-long.
This opinion is supported by drug manufacturers, who say that the results "highlight the long-term character of excess weight," comparing it to managing diseases like hypertension.
User Accounts
People who have stopped the medication describe a intense resurgence of cravings.
"It felt as if a switch activating and you become ravenous," said a patient.
This difficulty is worsened if patients have not adopted lasting dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Significant Use
Recent estimates indicate that millions of people in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with interest continuing to grow.
- Use is greater among women than males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- Many obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Ultimately, researchers stress that while these medications are powerful agents for weight loss, they are not a permanent fix and maintained weight loss relies on combined behavioural support.
