A recent study indicates that individuals who stop using popular GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide or tirzepatide tend to recover reduced body mass far faster than those who stop conventional diet and exercise regimens.
Research printed in a leading health publication points out that while obese individuals can lose a large proportion of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the weight comes back at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"Individuals purchasing these medications should be cognizant of the risk of quick rebound weight gain when the treatment ends," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain means a return to starting weight within about a year and a half.
Weighing Approaches
The research, which examined 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the effects of these new drugs with older methods.
The team note that individuals who lose weight through diet and exercise usually have a more gradual weight regain—approximately 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
Understanding the Rapid Rebound
Experts suggest the mode of action of the drugs explains the heightened weight return.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a natural hormone called GLP-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 levels several times higher than the body's typical production may cause the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also lessen sensitivity to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement means hunger is uncontrolled, making overeating far more likely."
A Lifelong Disease?
Health authorities advise the jabs for individuals with weight-linked health risks, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts contend that, considering the significant potential of relapse, the treatment might need to be long-term.
This opinion is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who say that the results "highlight the persistent character of obesity," similar to managing conditions like diabetes.
User Testimonies
Users who have stopped the medication describe a powerful return of cravings.
"It was like a trigger activating and you become starving," recalled an individual.
The struggle is exacerbated if patients have not developed sustainable lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Widespread Interest
Figures show that millions of people in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with demand continuing to grow.
- Use is more common among females compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Finally, researchers caution that while these medications are potent tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent fix and long-term success relies on combined behavioural management.
