New research suggests that people who discontinue blockbuster GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on reduced body mass far faster than those who end traditional diet and exercise programs.
Research printed in a leading health publication shows that while obese individuals frequently drop a large proportion of their total mass while on the medication, the weight is regained at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"Individuals using these drugs need to be informed of the risk of fast weight regain when the medication is stopped," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery suggests a reversion to pre-treatment weight in about a year and a half.
Comparing Therapies
The study, which reviewed dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the results of GLP-1 agonists with conventional dieting.
Researchers point out that individuals who lose weight through dieting typically have a less rapid weight regain—around 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
Understanding the Quick Rebound
Nutrition scientists propose the way of the injections explains the heightened weight return.
GLP-1 drugs copy a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls hunger.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 levels several times higher than the body's typical production could lead to the system to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and may also diminish responsiveness to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Stopping of this medication results in appetite is uncontrolled, making overeating far more likely."
A Chronic Issue?
The NHS recommend the jabs for people with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
Many experts contend that, considering the high risk of weight regain, the treatment should be considered ongoing.
This perspective is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the results "highlight the persistent character of excess weight," similar to managing diseases like hypertension.
User Accounts
Users who have come off the jabs describe a sudden resurgence of hunger.
"It was like a switch flipping and you become extremely hungry," recalled one woman.
The struggle is compounded if patients have not adopted sustainable lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Widespread Adoption
Survey data indicate that a significant number of people in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with desire continuing to grow.
- Adoption is more common among females than men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, researchers emphasize that while these medications are potent agents for shedding pounds, they are not a magic cure and maintained weight loss likely depends on combined behavioural support.
