Fresh analysis suggests that people who stop using new GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide or tirzepatide tend to recover shed pounds far faster than those who halt traditional diet and exercise plans.
Findings released in a major health publication shows that while obese people can lose a large proportion of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the weight is regained at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"People using these treatments need to be aware of the potential of fast weight regain when the treatment concludes," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery suggests a return to starting weight in about one and a half years.
Comparing Approaches
The research, which examined 37 of trials involving thousands of participants, contrasted the outcomes of the injectable medications with older methods.
Researchers emphasize that individuals who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone generally have a less rapid creep back—perhaps 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
Explaining the Quick Regain
Nutrition scientists suggest the mode of action of the injections accounts for the heightened regain.
The injections imitate a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate hunger.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production might result in the system to produce less of its own natural hormone, and could reduce sensitivity to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement results in hunger is unsuppressed, making overeating much more probable."
A Chronic Condition?
The NHS advise the jabs for people with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians contend that, considering the high risk of weight regain, the therapy is often long-term.
This perspective is echoed by drug manufacturers, who say that the results "underscore the persistent character of excess weight," comparing it to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
User Accounts
People who have discontinued the medication describe a sudden resurgence of appetite.
"It felt as if a switch flipping and you become extremely hungry," said an individual.
The struggle is exacerbated if individuals have not established sustainable dietary or behavioural modifications during treatment.
Widespread Adoption
Figures suggest that a significant number of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with interest being substantial.
- Adoption is higher among women compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Ultimately, experts caution that while the jabs are potent tools for weight loss, they are not a magic solution and maintained weight loss relies on combined behavioural changes.
