A recent study indicates that people who stop using blockbuster GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide or tirzepatide may regain lost weight much more quickly than those who stop traditional lifestyle programs.
Findings released in a leading health publication points out that while overweight individuals can lose a large proportion of their body weight while using the jabs, the mass returns at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Individuals using such drugs need to be aware of the risk of fast rebound weight gain when the medication concludes," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery implies a reversion to pre-treatment weight within about a year and a half.
Comparing Therapies
The study, which examined 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the effects of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
Scientists emphasize that people who lose weight through dieting generally see a less rapid weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Understanding the Fast Regain
Experts suggest the way of the injections is key to understanding the heightened rebound.
The injections copy a natural hormone called GLP-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 levels several times higher than normal could lead to the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also lessen sensitivity to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Discontinuation of this GLP-1 'fix' means hunger is no longer kept in check, making binge eating far more likely."
A Chronic Condition?
The NHS recommend the jabs for individuals with obesity-related health risks, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
Professionals say that, given the high risk of relapse, the therapy might need to be long-term.
This perspective is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the findings "underscore the chronic character of excess weight," similar to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
Patient Accounts
Users who have stopped the jabs describe a powerful return of hunger.
"I experienced something that goes on and I was suddenly extremely hungry," described an individual.
The struggle is exacerbated if individuals have not developed lasting dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Widespread Use
Figures suggest that millions of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with interest remaining high.
- Adoption is higher among females than men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many access the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
In conclusion, clinicians stress that while the jabs are effective agents for shedding pounds, they are not a magic fix and long-term success relies on integrated lifestyle changes.
