Fresh analysis suggests that patients who stop using new GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide or tirzepatide may regain lost weight much more quickly than those who stop traditional diet and exercise programs.
Research printed in a major health publication shows that while obese people frequently drop a large proportion of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the weight returns at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"People using these treatments must be informed of the danger of quick weight regain when the treatment ends," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain suggests a reversion to original mass within about 18 months.
Analyzing Therapies
The analysis, which examined 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the effects of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
Researchers point out that people who shed pounds through diet and exercise generally have a less rapid creep back—approximately 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Explaining the Fast Rebound
Experts suggest the mechanism of the jabs explains the heightened weight return.
The injections copy a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls hunger.
"Artificially providing the hormone concentrations far above than the body's typical production might result in the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and could diminish sensitivity to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Withdrawal of this medication means hunger is unsuppressed, making binge eating much more probable."
A Lifelong Condition?
The NHS recommend the injections for individuals with obesity-related health risks, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians say that, due to the significant potential of weight regain, the treatment might need to be ongoing.
This opinion is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the findings "underscore the long-term character of obesity," akin to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Testimonies
Individuals who have stopped the medication describe a intense return of hunger.
"It was like something that goes on and you're instantly extremely hungry," recalled a patient.
The struggle is compounded if individuals have not established permanent dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Widespread Adoption
Figures show that millions of people in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with interest continuing to grow.
- Use is greater among women than men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many access the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Finally, clinicians stress that while GLP-1 drugs are effective agents for weight loss, they are not a permanent solution and long-term success likely depends on ongoing behavioural changes.
