A recent study indicates that people who stop using new GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide or tirzepatide may regain reduced body mass at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop traditional diet and exercise plans.
Findings released in a leading health publication points out that while obese individuals can lose about a fifth of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the mass returns at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Individuals purchasing such drugs need to be cognizant of the potential of quick weight regain when the medication ends," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery suggests a reversion to pre-treatment mass within about a year and a half.
Weighing Treatments
The research, which examined 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the outcomes of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
Researchers emphasize that people who lose weight through dieting typically see a less rapid weight regain—approximately 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
The Reason for the Fast Rebound
Doctors suggest the way of the injections accounts for the amplified rebound.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates appetite.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone levels several times higher than normal could lead to the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and could diminish sensitivity to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' results in hunger is no longer kept in check, making binge eating much more probable."
An Ongoing Disease?
Health authorities suggest the jabs for people with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts contend that, considering the high risk of relapse, the therapy is often life-long.
This opinion is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the findings "highlight the persistent character of obesity," comparing it to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
User Experiences
Individuals who have come off the medication report a powerful resurgence of cravings.
"It was like something that goes on and I was suddenly extremely hungry," recalled a patient.
The struggle is exacerbated if individuals have not adopted sustainable lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Growing Use
Recent estimates suggest that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with demand continuing to grow.
- Use is higher among women than men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Finally, researchers stress that while GLP-1 drugs are effective tools for shedding pounds, they are not a magic solution and maintained weight loss likely depends on integrated behavioural changes.
