Fresh analysis indicates that individuals who come off new GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide or tirzepatide may regain lost weight much more quickly than those who stop conventional diet and exercise plans.
Published data in a prominent health publication shows that while obese individuals can lose about a fifth of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the mass is regained at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Individuals buying such medications need to be aware of the risk of quick rebound weight gain when the therapy ends," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain means a reversion to pre-treatment weight in about 18 months.
Weighing Therapies
The research, which reviewed dozens of trials involving thousands of patients, compared the results of the injectable medications with other pills.
Researchers note that individuals who shed pounds through diet and exercise typically experience a slower creep back—perhaps 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
The Reason for the Rapid Regain
Nutrition scientists suggest the mechanism of the drugs explains the heightened rebound.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a natural hormone called GLP-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 levels far above than the body's typical production could lead to the system to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and could diminish sensitivity to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement leads to hunger is unsuppressed, making binge eating much more probable."
A Chronic Disease?
The NHS suggest the injections for individuals with obesity-related health risks, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians say that, given the significant potential of weight regain, the therapy might need to be life-long.
This opinion is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who say that the results "highlight the long-term character of obesity," comparing it to managing conditions like diabetes.
User Experiences
Users who have come off the medication report a powerful return of hunger.
"It felt as if a switch activating and you're instantly ravenous," described a patient.
The struggle is worsened if patients have not developed lasting dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Growing Use
Survey data show that millions of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with demand being substantial.
- Adoption is higher among females than men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, researchers caution that while the jabs are effective agents for weight loss, they are not a permanent fix and long-term success likely depends on ongoing lifestyle changes.
