New research suggests that individuals who come off popular GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on shed pounds much more quickly than those who stop conventional diet and exercise regimens.
Published data in a prominent medical journal shows that while overweight people frequently drop a large proportion of their body weight while using the jabs, the weight is regained at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Users purchasing such treatments must be aware of the risk of quick rebound weight gain when the therapy concludes," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain suggests a return to starting weight in about one and a half years.
Comparing Approaches
The study, which reviewed dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the effects of GLP-1 agonists with older methods.
Scientists point out that individuals who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone generally see a more gradual weight regain—perhaps 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
Understanding the Quick Regain
Doctors propose the way of the jabs is key to understanding the heightened weight return.
The injections mimic a natural hormone called GLP-1, which controls hunger.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone levels far above than normal might result in the system to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and could diminish responsiveness to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement means appetite is unsuppressed, making overeating a significant risk."
A Chronic Condition?
The NHS advise the injections for people with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
Many experts contend that, given the significant potential of weight regain, the treatment should be considered life-long.
This perspective is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who note that the findings "highlight the long-term character of obesity," akin to managing conditions like hypertension.
User Accounts
Individuals who have come off the jabs report a powerful return of cravings.
"It was like a trigger flipping and I was suddenly ravenous," recalled one woman.
This difficulty is worsened if users have not developed permanent lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Growing Use
Survey data show that millions of people in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with demand continuing to grow.
- Use is higher among females than men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest usage rates.
- Many obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Finally, researchers emphasize that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful agents for weight loss, they are not a permanent solution and maintained weight loss relies on combined lifestyle changes.
