Fresh analysis suggests that people who stop using blockbuster GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide or tirzepatide tend to recover reduced body mass far faster than those who stop traditional diet and exercise programs.
Findings released in a major health publication demonstrates that while obese individuals frequently drop about a fifth of their body weight while using the jabs, the weight returns at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Individuals using such medications must be informed of the danger of fast weight regain when the medication is stopped," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain means a return to starting mass within about one and a half years.
Weighing Treatments
The research, which looked at dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the results of the injectable medications with older methods.
The team point out that individuals who lose weight through dieting generally experience a more gradual weight regain—around 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Understanding the Quick Regain
Nutrition scientists believe the mode of action of the drugs is key to understanding the heightened weight return.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls appetite.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone levels several times higher than normal might result in the body to produce less of its own natural hormone, and may also lessen sensitivity to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement results in appetite is unsuppressed, making excessive eating a significant risk."
A Chronic Disease?
The NHS recommend the jabs for people with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts say that, considering the likelihood of weight regain, the therapy should be considered ongoing.
This perspective is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the results "underscore the chronic character of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like diabetes.
User Accounts
People who have discontinued the jabs describe a sudden resurgence of appetite.
"I experienced a switch activating and you're instantly starving," said a patient.
The struggle is exacerbated if users have not established sustainable lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Widespread Use
Survey data indicate that a significant number of people in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with demand remaining high.
- Adoption is higher among women than males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- Many obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, clinicians caution that while GLP-1 drugs are potent tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent cure and lasting health benefits likely depends on ongoing lifestyle support.
