A recent study reveals that people who come off blockbuster GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on shed pounds much more quickly than those who halt traditional diet and exercise plans.
Findings released in a major medical journal demonstrates that while obese individuals can lose substantial amounts of their body weight while on the medication, the weight returns at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Users purchasing these treatments should be cognizant of the potential of fast rebound weight gain when the medication ends," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery means a reversion to starting weight in about one and a half years.
Analyzing Therapies
The research, which reviewed dozens of trials involving thousands of patients, compared the results of GLP-1 agonists with older methods.
Researchers point out that individuals who shed pounds through diet and exercise generally have a less rapid creep back—approximately 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
The Reason for the Quick Rebound
Doctors suggest the mechanism of the drugs explains the heightened rebound.
The injections imitate a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate hunger.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 levels far above than normal may cause the system to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and could lessen responsiveness to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement leads to hunger is unsuppressed, making overeating much more probable."
A Lifelong Condition?
Medical guidelines advise the injections for people with obesity-related health risks, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
Professionals contend that, due to the high risk of relapse, the therapy should be considered ongoing.
This view is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the findings "highlight the chronic character of excess weight," comparing it to managing conditions like hypertension.
Patient Experiences
People who have stopped the jabs describe a powerful resurgence of appetite.
"It was like a trigger that goes on and you're instantly ravenous," recalled one woman.
This challenge is compounded if users have not developed lasting lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Growing Adoption
Survey data suggest that millions of adults in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with interest remaining high.
- Use is higher among females than males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, experts caution that while the jabs are powerful tools for weight loss, they are not a magic solution and long-term success likely depends on ongoing behavioural changes.
