A recent study indicates that individuals who stop using new GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide or tirzepatide tend to recover lost weight at a significantly accelerated pace than those who halt conventional lifestyle plans.
Research printed in a leading medical journal points out that while overweight people can lose a large proportion of their total mass while using the jabs, the mass returns at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Users purchasing such treatments must be informed of the risk of quick rebound weight gain when the therapy concludes," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery means a return to starting weight in about one and a half years.
Analyzing Treatments
The analysis, which reviewed 37 of trials involving thousands of patients, contrasted the results of these new drugs with other pills.
The team emphasize that individuals who shed pounds through dieting typically have a slower creep back—approximately 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
The Reason for the Quick Rebound
Experts suggest the mechanism of the drugs is key to understanding the amplified regain.
These medications imitate a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which controls appetite.
"Long-term administration of the hormone levels far above than the body's typical production might result in the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also diminish responsiveness to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Withdrawal of this GLP-1 'fix' results in hunger is unsuppressed, making overeating much more probable."
A Lifelong Issue?
Medical guidelines recommend the jabs for individuals with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts contend that, considering the significant potential of weight regain, the treatment is often long-term.
This perspective is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the results "emphasize the persistent character of excess weight," similar to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
Patient Testimonies
Individuals who have discontinued the medication describe a sudden return of cravings.
"It was like a switch that goes on and you're instantly starving," recalled an individual.
This difficulty is compounded if individuals have not adopted permanent lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Growing Interest
Survey data show that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with interest being substantial.
- Adoption is more common among women than males.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
In conclusion, experts stress that while GLP-1 drugs are effective agents for weight loss, they are not a standalone solution and maintained weight loss relies on combined behavioural changes.
