New research reveals that people who discontinue new GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on shed pounds far faster than those who end traditional diet and exercise programs.
Findings released in a major health publication demonstrates that while obese individuals frequently drop substantial amounts of their body weight while using the jabs, the weight returns at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Users buying such drugs must be informed of the risk of quick rebound weight gain when the therapy ends," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain implies a reversion to original mass in about 18 months.
Comparing Treatments
The analysis, which examined dozens of trials involving thousands of participants, compared the results of GLP-1 agonists with conventional dieting.
Researchers emphasize that individuals who shed pounds through dieting generally experience a more gradual creep back—around 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
The Reason for the Rapid Rebound
Nutrition scientists propose the mode of action of the jabs explains the heightened weight return.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls hunger.
"Artificially providing the hormone concentrations far above than the body's typical production might result in the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and could lessen responsiveness to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement results in hunger is no longer kept in check, making overeating much more probable."
A Lifelong Issue?
Health authorities advise the injections for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals argue that, due to the significant potential of relapse, the treatment is often long-term.
This perspective is echoed by drug manufacturers, who state that the findings "underscore the persistent character of excess weight," comparing it to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
User Accounts
People who have discontinued the medication describe a sudden resurgence of appetite.
"I experienced a switch activating and I was suddenly ravenous," recalled an individual.
This difficulty is exacerbated if individuals have not established lasting dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Growing Use
Figures suggest that a significant number of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with demand continuing to grow.
- Adoption is greater among women than men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest usage rates.
- Many obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Ultimately, clinicians emphasize that while GLP-1 drugs are effective agents for weight loss, they are not a standalone cure and maintained weight loss likely depends on integrated lifestyle management.
