New research reveals that people who discontinue new GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide or tirzepatide tend to recover shed pounds far faster than those who halt conventional lifestyle regimens.
Findings released in a major health publication shows that while overweight people often shed about a fifth of their body weight while on the medication, the weight returns at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Users buying such treatments should be informed of the risk of fast rebound weight gain when the medication ends," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain suggests a return to pre-treatment mass in about one and a half years.
Weighing Therapies
The analysis, which reviewed 37 of trials involving thousands of patients, compared the effects of these new drugs with older methods.
Scientists point out that individuals who shed pounds through diet and exercise usually have a slower weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Understanding the Fast Rebound
Experts believe the way of the injections explains the accelerated weight return.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates hunger.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production might result in the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and may also reduce sensitivity to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement results in appetite is no longer kept in check, making overeating far more likely."
A Chronic Issue?
The NHS advise the injections for people with obesity-related health risks, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts contend that, given the high risk of weight regain, the therapy is often long-term.
This view is supported by drug manufacturers, who note that the findings "highlight the persistent nature of obesity," similar to managing conditions like diabetes.
Patient Experiences
Individuals who have discontinued the medication explain a powerful resurgence of hunger.
"I experienced a trigger flipping and you're instantly starving," recalled a patient.
This difficulty is exacerbated if individuals have not adopted lasting dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Widespread Interest
Figures suggest that millions of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with demand remaining high.
- Use is higher among women than men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest level of interest.
- Many access the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, experts emphasize that while these medications are effective agents for shedding pounds, they are not a magic fix and maintained weight loss relies on combined lifestyle management.
