New research reveals that individuals who stop using new GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide or tirzepatide tend to recover lost weight far faster than those who end conventional lifestyle programs.
Research printed in a leading health publication shows that while obese people can lose about a fifth of their body weight while on the medication, the mass comes back at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"People using such medications must be aware of the danger of quick weight regain when the medication is stopped," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery means a return to starting mass within about a year and a half.
Analyzing Treatments
The research, which reviewed 37 of studies involving thousands of participants, contrasted the results of GLP-1 agonists with conventional dieting.
Researchers point out that individuals who shed pounds through dieting usually see a less rapid creep back—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
The Reason for the Quick Regain
Doctors believe the way of the drugs is key to understanding the amplified weight return.
The injections imitate a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing the hormone concentrations far above than the body's typical production could lead to the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and could diminish responsiveness to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Stopping of this medication results in hunger is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating far more likely."
A Lifelong Condition?
Health authorities suggest the jabs for people with obesity-related health risks, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts contend that, considering the high risk of relapse, the treatment might need to be life-long.
This view is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who state that the results "underscore the long-term character of excess weight," similar to managing diseases like hypertension.
User Experiences
Users who have come off the jabs describe a powerful return of appetite.
"It was like a switch that goes on and you become starving," described one woman.
This difficulty is exacerbated if individuals have not adopted permanent dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Significant Interest
Figures indicate that millions of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with desire remaining high.
- Use is greater among females compared to men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest level of interest.
- Many obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Ultimately, clinicians caution that while these medications are powerful tools for weight loss, they are not a standalone cure and lasting health benefits likely depends on integrated behavioural changes.
