Fresh analysis reveals that patients who stop using new GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide or tirzepatide may regain shed pounds at a significantly accelerated pace than those who end conventional diet and exercise programs.
Published data in a prominent medical journal points out that while overweight individuals can lose substantial amounts of their total mass while using the jabs, the weight returns at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"People using these drugs must be informed of the potential of quick weight regain when the medication concludes," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery implies a return to starting weight in about 18 months.
Analyzing Treatments
The study, which looked at 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the outcomes of the injectable medications with older methods.
Scientists note that individuals who shed pounds through dieting usually see a less rapid weight regain—around 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Understanding the Rapid Regain
Experts believe the mechanism of the injections is key to understanding the heightened regain.
GLP-1 drugs copy a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which moderates hunger.
"Artificially providing the hormone concentrations several times higher than normal could lead to the system to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and could diminish responsiveness to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Discontinuation of this medication results in appetite is uncontrolled, making binge eating far more likely."
A Lifelong Disease?
Medical guidelines recommend the injections for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts contend that, due to the high risk of relapse, the treatment should be considered long-term.
This view is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the results "underscore the persistent nature of excess weight," similar to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Experiences
Individuals who have stopped the jabs describe a powerful return of hunger.
"I experienced a switch that goes on and you become extremely hungry," said an individual.
This difficulty is worsened if individuals have not established permanent lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Significant Adoption
Recent estimates show that a significant number of people in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with desire continuing to grow.
- Adoption is greater among women than males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Finally, researchers emphasize that while these medications are effective tools for shedding pounds, they are not a magic fix and lasting health benefits likely depends on integrated behavioural changes.
