A recent study suggests that people who stop using new GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on reduced body mass much more quickly than those who stop traditional lifestyle regimens.
Research printed in a prominent health publication points out that while overweight individuals often shed a large proportion of their body weight while using the jabs, the weight is regained at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Users buying such treatments should be cognizant of the danger of fast weight regain when the treatment ends," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery suggests a return to starting weight in about 18 months.
Weighing Treatments
The study, which looked at dozens of trials involving thousands of patients, contrasted the effects of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
Scientists note that individuals who lose weight through diet and exercise generally experience a more gradual weight regain—approximately 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
Understanding the Quick Rebound
Doctors believe the mechanism of the drugs is key to understanding the accelerated rebound.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates hunger.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production may cause the body to produce less of its own natural hormone, and may also reduce responsiveness to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Discontinuation of this GLP-1 'fix' means appetite is unsuppressed, making binge eating far more likely."
A Lifelong Disease?
Health authorities recommend the injections for people with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians argue that, considering the significant potential of relapse, the therapy is often long-term.
This opinion is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the findings "underscore the persistent character of obesity," similar to managing diseases like hypertension.
Patient Experiences
Users who have come off the jabs explain a sudden return of hunger.
"It felt as if a switch that goes on and I was suddenly ravenous," recalled a patient.
The struggle is compounded if patients have not adopted permanent dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Growing Adoption
Recent estimates suggest that millions of people in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with interest continuing to grow.
- Use is higher among women than males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Ultimately, experts stress that while these medications are powerful agents for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone fix and long-term success likely depends on combined behavioural changes.
