New research reveals that patients who discontinue new GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide or tirzepatide may regain lost weight far faster than those who end conventional diet and exercise programs.
Findings released in a leading medical journal shows that while overweight people frequently drop a large proportion of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the weight returns at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Individuals buying such treatments need to be cognizant of the danger of quick weight regain when the therapy is stopped," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery implies a reversion to pre-treatment weight in about one and a half years.
Analyzing Therapies
The analysis, which reviewed 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the effects of GLP-1 agonists with conventional dieting.
Scientists point out that individuals who shed pounds through diet and exercise generally see a slower creep back—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
Understanding the Fast Regain
Doctors propose the mechanism of the jabs explains the amplified regain.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls hunger.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 levels several times higher than the body's typical production could lead to the system to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and could diminish responsiveness to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Withdrawal of this medication leads to appetite is unsuppressed, making excessive eating much more probable."
A Lifelong Issue?
Medical guidelines advise the injections for people with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts say that, considering the likelihood of relapse, the therapy might need to be ongoing.
This opinion is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the findings "underscore the chronic nature of excess weight," akin to managing conditions like diabetes.
Patient Experiences
Individuals who have stopped the jabs explain a sudden resurgence of hunger.
"It felt as if a trigger activating and you become starving," described a patient.
The struggle is exacerbated if users have not developed sustainable lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Widespread Interest
Recent estimates suggest that a significant number of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with interest being substantial.
- Use is more common among women compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Finally, experts caution that while the jabs are effective agents for weight loss, they are not a permanent cure and long-term success relies on combined behavioural management.
