A recent study suggests that people who come off new GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide or tirzepatide tend to recover shed pounds far faster than those who end traditional lifestyle plans.
Research printed in a leading medical journal shows that while overweight people frequently drop substantial amounts of their body weight while on the medication, the weight returns at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Users using such treatments must be aware of the risk of quick weight regain when the treatment ends," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain suggests a return to pre-treatment mass within about a year and a half.
Analyzing Approaches
The analysis, which looked at 37 of trials involving thousands of participants, compared the results of the injectable medications with older methods.
The team note that people who lose weight through diet and exercise typically experience a slower creep back—perhaps 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
The Reason for the Fast Regain
Experts believe the way of the injections accounts for the accelerated regain.
The injections copy a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone levels far above than normal might result in the body to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and could diminish responsiveness to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Withdrawal of this medication means hunger is no longer kept in check, making binge eating much more probable."
A Chronic Disease?
Medical guidelines advise the injections for individuals with obesity-related health risks, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
Professionals argue that, considering the high risk of weight regain, the therapy might need to be life-long.
This perspective is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the findings "underscore the chronic nature of obesity," akin to managing conditions like hypertension.
User Testimonies
People who have stopped the medication describe a intense return of appetite.
"I experienced a switch activating and you become extremely hungry," recalled a patient.
The struggle is exacerbated if patients have not established permanent lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Widespread Use
Recent estimates suggest that millions of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with demand remaining high.
- Adoption is more common among women compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- Many access the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, clinicians stress that while these medications are effective agents for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent solution and long-term success likely depends on ongoing lifestyle management.
