Fresh analysis reveals that people who stop using blockbuster GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide or tirzepatide may regain shed pounds much more quickly than those who stop conventional diet and exercise programs.
Research printed in a major medical journal points out that while obese people can lose a large proportion of their total mass while using the jabs, the mass is regained at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Users using such medications should be cognizant of the risk of fast rebound weight gain when the treatment ends," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain suggests a return to pre-treatment weight within about a year and a half.
Weighing Treatments
The research, which reviewed dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the effects of these new drugs with older methods.
Researchers emphasize that people who shed pounds through diet and exercise generally experience a slower creep back—approximately 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Explaining the Rapid Regain
Nutrition scientists believe the mode of action of the injections accounts for the amplified rebound.
These medications imitate a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which controls appetite.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than normal may cause the body to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and may also reduce responsiveness to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement results in appetite is no longer kept in check, making overeating far more likely."
A Chronic Issue?
The NHS recommend the injections for people with weight-linked health risks, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals say that, given the significant potential of relapse, the therapy might need to be long-term.
This perspective is echoed by drug manufacturers, who state that the results "underscore the chronic character of obesity," akin to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
User Accounts
People who have come off the jabs explain a sudden resurgence of cravings.
"I experienced a trigger activating and you become extremely hungry," recalled one woman.
This challenge is worsened if patients have not adopted lasting lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Widespread Use
Survey data indicate that a significant number of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with demand being substantial.
- Adoption is higher among women compared to men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Finally, researchers caution that while the jabs are powerful tools for weight loss, they are not a standalone fix and maintained weight loss hinges on integrated behavioural support.
