New research indicates that people who stop using new GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on reduced body mass at a significantly accelerated pace than those who end traditional lifestyle regimens.
Findings released in a leading health publication points out that while overweight individuals often shed a large proportion of their total mass while using the jabs, the mass comes back at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"People buying these treatments need to be aware of the potential of fast rebound weight gain when the treatment concludes," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain means a return to starting weight in about one and a half years.
Analyzing Treatments
The analysis, which examined dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the results of these new drugs with other pills.
Researchers emphasize that individuals who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone typically see a slower weight regain—approximately 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
Explaining the Quick Regain
Experts believe the mechanism of the jabs is key to understanding the heightened rebound.
The injections mimic a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls appetite.
"Long-term administration of the hormone concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production could lead to the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and could reduce responsiveness to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Discontinuation of this GLP-1 'fix' leads to hunger is no longer kept in check, making binge eating far more likely."
A Chronic Issue?
Medical guidelines recommend the jabs for people with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
Professionals say that, considering the high risk of relapse, the treatment might need to be long-term.
This view is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the results "underscore the persistent character of excess weight," similar to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
User Accounts
Users who have discontinued the jabs describe a sudden return of cravings.
"It felt as if something that goes on and you become starving," recalled an individual.
This difficulty is worsened if individuals have not developed sustainable lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Significant Use
Recent estimates show that millions of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with desire remaining high.
- Use is higher among females compared to men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Finally, researchers stress that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful agents for weight loss, they are not a magic fix and maintained weight loss hinges on ongoing lifestyle changes.
