A recent study reveals that people who discontinue new GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide or tirzepatide may regain lost weight at a significantly accelerated pace than those who halt conventional diet and exercise regimens.
Published data in a leading medical journal shows that while obese people can lose a large proportion of their total mass while on the medication, the mass returns at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Users using such medications must be cognizant of the risk of quick weight regain when the medication is stopped," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery means a reversion to original weight in about one and a half years.
Analyzing Approaches
The study, which examined 37 of studies involving thousands of patients, contrasted the effects of GLP-1 agonists with older methods.
Researchers point out that individuals who lose weight through dieting typically see a more gradual creep back—around 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
The Reason for the Rapid Rebound
Nutrition scientists propose the mode of action of the injections explains the accelerated weight return.
These medications imitate a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of the hormone concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production might result in the body to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and may also reduce responsiveness to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement means appetite is unsuppressed, making overeating much more probable."
A Lifelong Disease?
Health authorities recommend the injections for people with obesity-related health risks, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals contend that, considering the high risk of relapse, the treatment should be considered life-long.
This opinion is echoed by drug manufacturers, who say that the findings "highlight the persistent nature of obesity," comparing it to managing conditions like diabetes.
Patient Testimonies
Individuals who have come off the medication report a intense resurgence of cravings.
"It was like a trigger flipping and you become ravenous," recalled one woman.
This challenge is compounded if individuals have not adopted lasting dietary or behavioural modifications during treatment.
Widespread Use
Figures show that millions of adults in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with interest remaining high.
- Use is more common among females compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, researchers stress that while these medications are potent tools for weight loss, they are not a standalone cure and maintained weight loss relies on ongoing lifestyle support.
