New research reveals that patients who come off new GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on lost weight far faster than those who stop conventional diet and exercise programs.
Published data in a prominent health publication shows that while obese people frequently drop substantial amounts of their total mass while using the jabs, the weight returns at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Users using such drugs should be informed of the danger of rapid rebound weight gain when the treatment ends," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery means a reversion to original weight in about one and a half years.
Analyzing Treatments
The study, which looked at 37 of studies involving thousands of patients, contrasted the outcomes of the injectable medications with older methods.
Scientists note that people who lose weight through dieting generally have a less rapid creep back—around 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
The Reason for the Quick Rebound
Nutrition scientists suggest the way of the injections is key to understanding the heightened rebound.
The injections imitate a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone concentrations far above than the body's typical production may cause the body to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also lessen responsiveness to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Discontinuation of this GLP-1 'fix' means hunger is unsuppressed, making binge eating a significant risk."
A Chronic Disease?
Medical guidelines suggest the injections for people with weight-linked health risks, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians argue that, given the significant potential of weight regain, the therapy might need to be life-long.
This view is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who say that the findings "emphasize the chronic character of obesity," comparing it to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Testimonies
Users who have come off the medication explain a sudden resurgence of hunger.
"It felt as if a trigger activating and you're instantly extremely hungry," recalled a patient.
The struggle is worsened if patients have not adopted lasting lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Widespread Interest
Recent estimates show that millions of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with interest remaining high.
- Use is higher among women compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- Many obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Finally, researchers emphasize that while these medications are effective agents for weight loss, they are not a magic cure and maintained weight loss likely depends on combined lifestyle management.
