A recent study suggests that individuals who come off blockbuster GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on shed pounds at a significantly accelerated pace than those who end conventional diet and exercise programs.
Findings released in a major health publication demonstrates that while overweight people can lose substantial amounts of their body weight while using the jabs, the mass returns at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"People buying these treatments need to be informed of the potential of fast weight regain when the medication concludes," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain suggests a return to original weight within about one and a half years.
Weighing Therapies
The analysis, which examined 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the results of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
The team point out that people who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone usually experience a slower creep back—approximately 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Explaining the Quick Regain
Experts propose the mode of action of the drugs explains the heightened regain.
The injections imitate a natural hormone called GLP-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone concentrations several times higher than normal may cause the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and may also reduce responsiveness to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' leads to hunger is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating much more probable."
An Ongoing Condition?
Health authorities advise the jabs for individuals with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Professionals contend that, due to the high risk of relapse, the treatment might need to be ongoing.
This perspective is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the results "emphasize the persistent nature of obesity," akin to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
User Accounts
People who have discontinued the jabs explain a powerful return of appetite.
"It was like something flipping and you're instantly extremely hungry," described an individual.
This difficulty is compounded if patients have not established lasting lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Significant Use
Survey data suggest that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with desire being substantial.
- Use is higher among women than men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Finally, clinicians caution that while these medications are powerful tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent fix and lasting health benefits likely depends on ongoing lifestyle management.
