Fresh analysis indicates that people who discontinue new GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide or tirzepatide may regain lost weight far faster than those who halt traditional lifestyle programs.
Research printed in a leading 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 after stopping.
"People buying these medications need to be cognizant of the risk of fast weight regain when the therapy is stopped," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain suggests a reversion to pre-treatment weight in about 18 months.
Analyzing Treatments
The study, which reviewed 37 of studies involving thousands of participants, compared the results of these new drugs with other pills.
Researchers note that individuals who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone usually have a slower creep back—approximately 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
The Reason for the Rapid Regain
Doctors believe the mode of action of the jabs explains the accelerated rebound.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a natural hormone called GLP-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Artificially providing the hormone concentrations far above than normal might result in the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also diminish responsiveness to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Withdrawal of this GLP-1 'fix' results in appetite is no longer kept in check, making binge eating a significant risk."
A Lifelong Disease?
The NHS suggest the injections for individuals with obesity-related health risks, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts contend that, given the likelihood of weight regain, the treatment is often long-term.
This opinion is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the findings "highlight the persistent nature of excess weight," similar to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
Patient Accounts
People who have discontinued the medication explain a powerful return of hunger.
"I experienced something activating and you become starving," described one woman.
This difficulty is exacerbated if patients have not adopted lasting lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Significant Use
Recent estimates indicate that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with demand being substantial.
- Adoption is higher among females compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Ultimately, clinicians caution that while GLP-1 drugs are effective tools for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent cure and long-term success relies on integrated behavioural support.
