A recent study suggests that patients who discontinue blockbuster GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on reduced body mass at a significantly accelerated pace than those who end traditional lifestyle plans.
Findings released in a major medical journal shows that while overweight people can lose about a fifth of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the mass comes back at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Users buying these treatments need to be informed of the potential of quick weight regain when the therapy is stopped," stated lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain means a return to original weight in about a year and a half.
Weighing Treatments
The analysis, which looked at 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the results of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
Researchers point out that individuals who shed pounds through diet and exercise typically experience a less rapid creep back—around 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
The Reason for the Quick Rebound
Doctors believe the mechanism of the jabs explains the heightened weight return.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls appetite.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 levels several times higher than normal may cause the system to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and could lessen responsiveness to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Stopping of this medication results in appetite is no longer kept in check, making binge eating a significant risk."
A Lifelong Issue?
Health authorities recommend the jabs for individuals with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Professionals say that, considering the high risk of relapse, the treatment is often long-term.
This perspective is supported by drug manufacturers, who say that the results "emphasize the chronic character of excess weight," similar to managing diseases like hypertension.
Patient Experiences
Individuals who have come off the medication report a intense resurgence of hunger.
"It felt as if a trigger flipping and you're instantly ravenous," recalled an individual.
This difficulty is compounded if users have not adopted permanent dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Growing Adoption
Survey data show that millions of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with demand continuing to grow.
- Adoption is greater among women than men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, clinicians emphasize that while these medications are effective tools for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent fix and maintained weight loss likely depends on integrated lifestyle changes.
