Fresh analysis reveals that patients who stop using new GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide or tirzepatide may regain shed pounds far faster than those who end traditional diet and exercise plans.
Published data in a major health publication points out that while overweight individuals can lose a large proportion of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the weight returns at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Users using such treatments should be cognizant of the danger of quick rebound weight gain when the therapy concludes," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain implies a reversion to starting mass within about 18 months.
Weighing Treatments
The analysis, which examined dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the results of the injectable medications with older methods.
Researchers emphasize that people who shed pounds through dieting usually see a less rapid weight regain—around 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
The Reason for the Fast Rebound
Nutrition scientists propose the way of the drugs explains the amplified regain.
The injections copy a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which controls appetite.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone concentrations far above than the body's typical production could lead to the system to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and may also lessen sensitivity to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Withdrawal of this medication results in appetite is uncontrolled, making overeating far more likely."
A Chronic Condition?
Health authorities advise the injections for individuals with obesity-related health risks, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
Many experts argue that, considering the high risk of relapse, the treatment might need to be long-term.
This perspective is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the results "emphasize the long-term character of obesity," akin to managing conditions like hypertension.
User Accounts
Individuals who have stopped the jabs report a powerful return of hunger.
"It felt as if a switch that goes on and you're instantly extremely hungry," recalled a patient.
This difficulty is exacerbated if patients have not established sustainable lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Widespread Interest
Figures show that millions of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with interest continuing to grow.
- Adoption is more common among females compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- Many obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, experts caution that while the jabs are powerful agents for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone solution and long-term success hinges on combined behavioural changes.
