New research indicates that patients who stop using new GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on reduced body mass at a significantly accelerated pace than those who halt traditional lifestyle regimens.
Findings released in a leading health publication points out that while overweight people can lose about a fifth of their total mass while on the medication, the weight returns at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"People using these drugs must be cognizant of the risk of fast weight regain when the treatment is stopped," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain suggests a reversion to original mass within about one and a half years.
Comparing Approaches
The study, which examined 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the effects of GLP-1 agonists with conventional dieting.
The team note that individuals who shed pounds through diet and exercise generally see a slower creep back—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
Understanding the Fast Rebound
Doctors propose the way of the injections accounts for the heightened rebound.
GLP-1 drugs copy a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone levels far above than normal could lead to the system to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and could lessen responsiveness to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Withdrawal of this medication results in appetite is unsuppressed, making binge eating a significant risk."
An Ongoing Issue?
Health authorities suggest the injections for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
Many experts contend that, considering the likelihood of weight regain, the therapy should be considered life-long.
This view is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the results "emphasize the chronic character of obesity," akin to managing diseases like hypertension.
Patient Experiences
Users who have come off the medication describe a powerful return of appetite.
"It was like a switch that goes on and you become ravenous," described one woman.
The struggle is exacerbated if patients have not developed sustainable lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Significant Interest
Figures suggest that millions of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with desire continuing to grow.
- Use is greater among women compared to men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Finally, clinicians caution that while the jabs are powerful tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent cure and long-term success relies on ongoing lifestyle support.
