New research reveals that people who discontinue popular GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide or tirzepatide may regain lost weight much more quickly than those who stop traditional diet and exercise regimens.
Published data in a prominent medical journal points out that while obese people frequently drop about a fifth of their total mass while using the jabs, the weight comes back at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Users purchasing such treatments must be informed of the potential of fast weight regain when the medication ends," stated researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain suggests a reversion to pre-treatment weight within about a year and a half.
Weighing Treatments
The research, which reviewed 37 of trials involving thousands of participants, contrasted the outcomes of GLP-1 agonists with other pills.
The team emphasize that individuals who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone usually experience a slower weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
The Reason for the Fast Regain
Doctors propose the way of the injections explains the amplified regain.
These medications copy a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls appetite.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 concentrations far above than the body's typical production might result in the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and could reduce responsiveness to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Stopping of this medication results in appetite is uncontrolled, making binge eating much more probable."
An Ongoing Issue?
Health authorities suggest the jabs for people with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts argue that, considering the significant potential of weight regain, the treatment might need to be long-term.
This view is supported by drug manufacturers, who note that the results "underscore the persistent nature of obesity," comparing it to managing conditions like hypertension.
User Accounts
Individuals who have come off the medication describe a powerful resurgence of hunger.
"It was like a trigger flipping and you become starving," recalled a patient.
This difficulty is compounded if individuals have not developed permanent lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Growing Use
Figures suggest that a significant number of people in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with demand remaining high.
- Use is more common among females than males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- Many access the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Ultimately, experts emphasize that while the jabs are powerful agents for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone cure and long-term success likely depends on ongoing lifestyle management.
