Fresh analysis reveals that people who discontinue blockbuster GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide or tirzepatide may regain lost weight much more quickly than those who end traditional lifestyle regimens.
Research printed in a major health publication points out that while obese people can lose substantial amounts of their total mass while using the jabs, the weight is regained at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Users using these medications must be cognizant of the potential of rapid rebound weight gain when the medication ends," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain implies a reversion to pre-treatment mass in about one and a half years.
Weighing Treatments
The study, which looked at dozens of trials involving thousands of participants, compared the effects of the injectable medications with older methods.
Scientists point out that individuals who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone typically see a slower creep back—around 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
The Reason for the Fast Regain
Experts believe the mode of action of the injections is key to understanding the heightened weight return.
The injections mimic a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls appetite.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 levels several times higher than the body's typical production could lead to the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and could reduce responsiveness to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement leads to hunger is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating far more likely."
An Ongoing Issue?
Medical guidelines suggest the jabs for individuals with weight-linked health risks, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians say that, considering the significant potential of relapse, the therapy should be considered long-term.
This opinion is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the results "highlight the chronic nature of excess weight," akin to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
Patient Testimonies
Users who have discontinued the jabs describe a sudden resurgence of appetite.
"It felt as if something that goes on and I was suddenly starving," recalled one woman.
The struggle is exacerbated if users have not established sustainable lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Widespread Use
Figures suggest that millions of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with interest continuing to grow.
- Adoption is greater among females than men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Finally, experts caution that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful agents for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent fix and long-term success hinges on combined behavioural changes.
