A recent study reveals that individuals who stop using new GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide or tirzepatide tend to recover shed pounds at a significantly accelerated pace than those who end traditional diet and exercise plans.
Published data in a major health publication shows that while overweight individuals often shed a large proportion of their total mass while using the jabs, the mass comes back at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Users using such treatments need to be cognizant of the potential of fast rebound weight gain when the treatment is stopped," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery means a return to original mass within about a year and a half.
Analyzing Approaches
The research, which looked at 37 of studies involving thousands of patients, compared the effects of the injectable medications with other pills.
Researchers emphasize that individuals who lose weight through dieting generally have a more gradual weight regain—approximately 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
Understanding the Quick Regain
Nutrition scientists suggest the way of the drugs is key to understanding the accelerated regain.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a natural hormone called GLP-1, which moderates hunger.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than normal may cause the body to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and could reduce sensitivity to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Discontinuation of this medication leads to hunger is uncontrolled, making overeating a significant risk."
A Chronic Disease?
The NHS advise the injections for people with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians argue that, considering the high risk of weight regain, the therapy should be considered ongoing.
This perspective is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the findings "emphasize the long-term character of obesity," similar to managing diseases like hypertension.
Patient Experiences
People who have stopped the medication report a sudden resurgence of cravings.
"It felt as if something that goes on and you become ravenous," described an individual.
The struggle is exacerbated if patients have not adopted sustainable lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Significant Interest
Recent estimates indicate that millions of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with interest remaining high.
- Use is more common among females compared to men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Finally, researchers caution that while the jabs are effective tools for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent cure and maintained weight loss likely depends on integrated behavioural support.
