New research suggests that patients who discontinue new GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on shed pounds much more quickly than those who end traditional lifestyle regimens.
Findings released in a major medical journal shows that while obese people can lose substantial amounts of their total mass while on the medication, the mass is regained at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"People using such medications need to be aware of the risk of rapid weight regain when the medication ends," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery suggests a return to original mass in about 18 months.
Weighing Therapies
The research, which reviewed 37 of trials involving thousands of patients, compared the outcomes of these new drugs with older methods.
Scientists point out that individuals who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone generally experience a more gradual creep back—around 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Explaining the Quick Regain
Experts suggest the way of the injections explains the heightened weight return.
These medications copy a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which helps regulate hunger.
"Long-term administration of the hormone levels several times higher than normal may cause the system to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and could reduce responsiveness to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Withdrawal of this GLP-1 'fix' leads to hunger is no longer kept in check, making binge eating a significant risk."
A Chronic Condition?
Medical guidelines suggest the jabs for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
Many experts argue that, due to the likelihood of relapse, the therapy is often long-term.
This view is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the findings "highlight the long-term character of excess weight," comparing it to managing conditions like hypertension.
Patient Accounts
Individuals who have discontinued the medication describe a powerful return of hunger.
"It was like a trigger that goes on and I was suddenly starving," recalled a patient.
The struggle is exacerbated if individuals have not adopted permanent lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Widespread Adoption
Figures suggest that millions of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with desire remaining high.
- Use is more common among women compared to males.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, experts stress that while these medications are effective agents for weight loss, they are not a permanent fix and lasting health benefits likely depends on combined behavioural management.
