A recent study reveals that people who stop using new GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on reduced body mass much more quickly than those who stop traditional lifestyle plans.
Published data in a leading medical journal points out that while overweight individuals often shed substantial amounts of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the mass comes back at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"People buying such drugs must be aware of the danger of fast rebound weight gain when the therapy is stopped," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery suggests a reversion to starting weight within about a year and a half.
Comparing Treatments
The research, which reviewed dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the results of these new drugs with other pills.
Researchers emphasize that people who shed pounds through diet and exercise usually experience a slower weight regain—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Understanding the Quick Rebound
Experts suggest the mode of action of the jabs accounts for the heightened rebound.
The injections imitate a natural hormone called GLP-1, which controls hunger.
"Long-term administration of the hormone levels far above than normal could lead to the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and may also diminish sensitivity to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement results in appetite is unsuppressed, making excessive eating a significant risk."
An Ongoing Disease?
Health authorities recommend the jabs for individuals with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals argue that, considering the significant potential of weight regain, the therapy might need to be life-long.
This view is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the results "highlight the persistent nature of excess weight," comparing it to managing conditions like hypertension.
User Experiences
Users who have stopped the medication describe a intense resurgence of hunger.
"I experienced a trigger flipping and you become ravenous," said a patient.
The struggle is compounded if users have not adopted sustainable dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Significant Use
Figures show that a significant number of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with interest being substantial.
- Adoption is more common among females than men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
In conclusion, researchers caution that while these medications are effective agents for shedding pounds, they are not a magic fix and maintained weight loss likely depends on combined lifestyle support.
