A recent study reveals that patients who come off new GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on shed pounds far faster than those who stop traditional lifestyle plans.
Findings released in a leading medical journal points out that while overweight people frequently drop a large proportion of their body weight while on the medication, the mass returns at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Users purchasing such medications must be aware of the danger of rapid weight regain when the treatment concludes," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery means a return to pre-treatment weight in about 18 months.
Analyzing Treatments
The analysis, which examined 37 of studies involving thousands of participants, contrasted the effects of these new drugs with other pills.
Scientists note that individuals who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone generally experience a less rapid weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
Understanding the Rapid Regain
Doctors believe the mechanism of the jabs accounts for the accelerated regain.
These medications copy a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 concentrations far above than the body's typical production could lead to the system to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also reduce sensitivity to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' results in hunger is uncontrolled, making overeating far more likely."
A Lifelong Disease?
Health authorities advise the injections for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians say that, due to the significant potential of relapse, the therapy is often life-long.
This view is supported by drug manufacturers, who note that the results "highlight the persistent nature of excess weight," similar to managing diseases like hypertension.
Patient Experiences
Individuals who have stopped the jabs describe a sudden return of cravings.
"It felt as if a switch activating and you're instantly extremely hungry," described one woman.
This difficulty is compounded if individuals have not developed permanent dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Growing Use
Survey data suggest that a significant number of people in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with interest continuing to grow.
- Use is higher among women than males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, researchers stress that while the jabs are powerful agents for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent fix and long-term success hinges on integrated behavioural management.
