New research suggests that people who stop using popular GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide or tirzepatide tend to recover shed pounds much more quickly than those who stop conventional lifestyle programs.
Published data in a leading medical journal points out that while overweight individuals often shed about a fifth of their total mass while on the medication, the mass comes back at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Users buying these medications need to be informed of the risk of rapid rebound weight gain when the treatment ends," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain means a reversion to pre-treatment mass within about 18 months.
Weighing Therapies
The research, which examined 37 of trials involving thousands of patients, compared the outcomes of GLP-1 agonists with conventional dieting.
The team point out that individuals who lose weight through diet and exercise typically see a less rapid creep back—around 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
Understanding the Quick Regain
Experts suggest the mode of action of the jabs accounts for the accelerated weight return.
These medications copy a natural hormone called GLP-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of the hormone levels several times higher than the body's typical production might result in the system to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and may also reduce responsiveness to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement leads to hunger is unsuppressed, making binge eating a significant risk."
An Ongoing Condition?
Health authorities suggest the injections for individuals with obesity-related health risks, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
Many experts say that, considering the likelihood of relapse, the therapy might need to be ongoing.
This opinion is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who note that the results "emphasize the long-term nature of excess weight," akin to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
Patient Testimonies
Users who have discontinued the medication describe a powerful return of appetite.
"I experienced a switch that goes on and I was suddenly ravenous," said an individual.
This difficulty is exacerbated if users have not developed sustainable dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Widespread Adoption
Figures show that millions of people in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with interest continuing to grow.
- Use is greater among women compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Finally, experts stress that while GLP-1 drugs are effective tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent solution and lasting health benefits likely depends on combined behavioural support.
