A recent study indicates that patients who come off new GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide or tirzepatide tend to recover lost weight at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop traditional diet and exercise plans.
Research printed in a prominent medical journal demonstrates that while overweight people frequently drop about a fifth of their total mass while using the jabs, the weight comes back at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"People buying these treatments need to be aware of the risk of fast rebound weight gain when the medication ends," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain means a reversion to original weight within about 18 months.
Comparing Approaches
The study, which looked at dozens of studies involving thousands of participants, contrasted the results of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
Scientists point out that individuals who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone generally experience a slower weight regain—around 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Explaining the Rapid Rebound
Experts propose the mechanism of the drugs accounts for the accelerated weight return.
GLP-1 drugs copy a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls appetite.
"Artificially providing the hormone levels several times higher than normal may cause the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and may also reduce sensitivity to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Withdrawal of this medication results in hunger is unsuppressed, making overeating a significant risk."
A Chronic Disease?
Health authorities advise the injections for people with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
Many experts say that, due to the likelihood of weight regain, the treatment should be considered long-term.
This perspective is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the findings "underscore the persistent nature of excess weight," akin to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Testimonies
People who have stopped the jabs report a intense return of cravings.
"I experienced a trigger activating and I was suddenly ravenous," described one woman.
This challenge is exacerbated if users have not established lasting lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Growing Adoption
Survey data suggest that millions of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with desire remaining high.
- Use is more common among women compared to men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Finally, clinicians emphasize that while the jabs are effective agents for weight loss, they are not a standalone solution and lasting health benefits likely depends on ongoing behavioural management.
