Fresh analysis reveals that people who come off popular GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on lost weight far faster than those who stop traditional lifestyle plans.
Research printed in a major health publication shows that while overweight individuals frequently drop substantial amounts of their total mass while on the medication, the mass returns at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Users buying such drugs need to be cognizant of the potential of fast rebound weight gain when the therapy is stopped," stated lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery implies a reversion to original weight within about one and a half years.
Weighing Therapies
The research, which looked at dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the effects of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
The team note that individuals who shed pounds through diet and exercise generally have a more gradual creep back—around 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
Understanding the Rapid Rebound
Experts propose the mode of action of the jabs is key to understanding the accelerated regain.
The injections mimic a natural hormone called GLP-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Long-term administration of the hormone concentrations several times higher than normal may cause the system to produce less of its own natural hormone, and may also lessen responsiveness to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Discontinuation of this medication results in appetite is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating a significant risk."
A Chronic Disease?
Medical guidelines suggest the injections for people with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians say that, due to the significant potential of relapse, the therapy might need to be ongoing.
This opinion is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the results "highlight the chronic character of obesity," similar to managing conditions like hypertension.
Patient Testimonies
Individuals who have come off the medication explain a sudden return of appetite.
"It felt as if something that goes on and you're instantly starving," recalled a patient.
The struggle is worsened if individuals have not developed sustainable lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Growing Adoption
Survey data show that a significant number of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with demand continuing to grow.
- Use is greater among women compared to males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Finally, experts caution that while the jabs are potent tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent cure and maintained weight loss likely depends on integrated lifestyle management.
