Fresh analysis reveals that individuals who stop using popular GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide or tirzepatide may regain lost weight at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop traditional diet and exercise plans.
Findings released in a leading medical journal shows that while obese individuals can lose about a fifth of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the mass comes back at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Individuals buying such treatments need to be informed of the risk of quick weight regain when the therapy ends," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain means a return to starting mass within about one and a half years.
Analyzing Approaches
The study, which reviewed dozens of studies involving thousands of patients, compared the effects of these new drugs with older methods.
Scientists point out that people who lose weight through dieting generally have a slower creep back—around 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
The Reason for the Quick Regain
Experts believe the mode of action of the drugs is key to understanding the heightened regain.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate 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 GLP-1, and may also lessen responsiveness to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Withdrawal of this GLP-1 'fix' means hunger is unsuppressed, making overeating much more probable."
A Lifelong Condition?
The NHS recommend the jabs for people with obesity-related health risks, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
Professionals contend that, due to the likelihood of weight regain, the therapy should be considered ongoing.
This perspective is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the results "underscore the chronic nature of obesity," similar to managing conditions like hypertension.
Patient Accounts
Users who have come off the medication describe a sudden resurgence of appetite.
"It was like something flipping and you become extremely hungry," described a patient.
This challenge is exacerbated if patients have not developed lasting dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Widespread Use
Figures show that millions of people in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with interest continuing to grow.
- Use is greater among women than men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Ultimately, experts stress that while the jabs are potent tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent cure and maintained weight loss relies on integrated lifestyle changes.
