Fresh analysis reveals that individuals who discontinue popular GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on shed pounds at a significantly accelerated pace than those who halt traditional lifestyle programs.
Findings released in a leading medical journal shows that while overweight people often shed about a fifth of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the weight returns at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Individuals using these medications need to be aware of the risk of rapid weight regain when the medication is stopped," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain implies a return to pre-treatment mass within about a year and a half.
Comparing Treatments
The study, which looked at dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the outcomes of these new drugs with other pills.
Researchers note that people who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone generally experience a more gradual weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Explaining the Rapid Regain
Nutrition scientists suggest the mode of action of the injections is key to understanding the accelerated regain.
The injections imitate a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than normal could lead to the body to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and could lessen sensitivity to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Withdrawal of this medication leads to appetite is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating much more probable."
A Chronic Issue?
Health authorities suggest the injections for individuals with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Professionals argue that, due to the significant potential of weight regain, the therapy might need to be ongoing.
This perspective is echoed by drug manufacturers, who state that the findings "emphasize the persistent nature of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
User Accounts
Individuals who have discontinued the medication describe a sudden resurgence of hunger.
"I experienced a switch activating and you become starving," recalled an individual.
This challenge is exacerbated if users have not developed sustainable dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Growing Interest
Figures indicate that a significant number of people in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with demand continuing to grow.
- Adoption is more common among women compared to men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, experts stress that while the jabs are powerful tools for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone cure and maintained weight loss relies on combined lifestyle changes.
