Fresh analysis reveals that individuals who stop using blockbuster GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide or tirzepatide tend to recover lost weight much more quickly than those who stop conventional diet and exercise programs.
Published data in a prominent medical journal demonstrates that while overweight individuals often shed substantial amounts of their body weight while using the jabs, the weight comes back at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Individuals buying these treatments need to be informed of the risk of rapid weight regain when the therapy ends," stated researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain means a reversion to starting mass within about one and a half years.
Analyzing Therapies
The study, which reviewed 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the effects of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
Scientists point out that individuals who lose weight through diet and exercise typically have a slower creep back—approximately 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
The Reason for the Fast Regain
Experts believe the way of the drugs accounts for the heightened weight return.
GLP-1 drugs copy a natural hormone called GLP-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 levels far above than normal may cause the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and could diminish sensitivity to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Discontinuation of this medication results in appetite is unsuppressed, making excessive eating far more likely."
An Ongoing Condition?
The NHS suggest the jabs for people with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
Professionals argue that, given the significant potential of relapse, the treatment should be considered long-term.
This view is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the findings "emphasize the long-term nature of obesity," similar to managing diseases like diabetes.
User Accounts
Individuals who have stopped the medication explain a intense resurgence of cravings.
"It was like something flipping and I was suddenly ravenous," described a patient.
The struggle is exacerbated if users have not established permanent dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Widespread Adoption
Figures suggest that a significant number of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with interest continuing to grow.
- Use is greater among females compared to men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Finally, experts emphasize that while these medications are effective agents for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent cure and long-term success likely depends on combined behavioural changes.
