A recent study indicates that people who come off new GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide or tirzepatide may regain lost weight much more quickly than those who halt conventional diet and exercise programs.
Published data in a major medical journal points out that while obese people can lose a large proportion of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the mass returns at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"Individuals buying these treatments need to be informed of the danger of fast rebound weight gain when the medication ends," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery implies a reversion to original weight in about a year and a half.
Comparing Approaches
The analysis, which reviewed 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the results of GLP-1 agonists with other pills.
Scientists note that individuals who lose weight through diet and exercise generally experience a less rapid weight regain—approximately 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
The Reason for the Rapid Rebound
Doctors propose the way of the drugs explains the heightened rebound.
The injections imitate a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing the hormone levels far above than the body's typical production could lead to the system to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also diminish responsiveness to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Stopping of this medication leads to hunger is unsuppressed, making overeating far more likely."
A Lifelong Disease?
Health authorities advise the injections for people with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians say that, considering the significant potential of relapse, the treatment should be considered long-term.
This view is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the results "underscore the long-term nature of obesity," akin to managing conditions like hypertension.
User Accounts
People who have come off the jabs describe a powerful return of hunger.
"It felt as if a trigger activating and you become ravenous," recalled one woman.
The struggle is worsened if users have not established lasting dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Widespread Interest
Survey data show that a significant number of adults in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with demand continuing to grow.
- Adoption is more common among women compared to males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Ultimately, researchers stress that while GLP-1 drugs are effective tools for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone fix and maintained weight loss hinges on integrated behavioural management.
