A recent study indicates that patients who discontinue blockbuster GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide or tirzepatide tend to recover lost weight much more quickly than those who halt traditional lifestyle programs.
Research printed in a major health publication points out that while obese individuals frequently drop a large proportion of their total mass while on the medication, the weight returns at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Individuals buying such drugs should be aware of the risk of quick rebound weight gain when the therapy is stopped," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain suggests a return to pre-treatment mass within about 18 months.
Weighing Approaches
The research, which examined 37 of trials involving thousands of patients, contrasted the effects of the injectable medications with other pills.
The team note that people who lose weight through dieting usually have a less rapid weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Explaining the Fast Rebound
Nutrition scientists believe the mode of action of the drugs is key to understanding the accelerated rebound.
The injections copy a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production might result in the system to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also diminish responsiveness to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement means appetite is no longer kept in check, making binge eating far more likely."
An Ongoing Disease?
Health authorities recommend the jabs for people with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals argue that, due to the significant potential of relapse, the therapy should be considered long-term.
This opinion is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the findings "underscore the chronic character of obesity," similar to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
Patient Experiences
People who have come off the jabs report a intense return of hunger.
"I experienced something flipping and you're instantly extremely hungry," said one woman.
This difficulty is worsened if individuals have not developed permanent dietary or behavioural modifications during treatment.
Widespread Interest
Survey data show that millions of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with interest being substantial.
- Use is greater among females compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- Many access the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Ultimately, experts caution that while these medications are powerful agents for weight loss, they are not a standalone fix and lasting health benefits hinges on combined behavioural changes.
