New research suggests that patients who stop using popular GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide or tirzepatide may regain lost weight much more quickly than those who stop conventional diet and exercise programs.
Findings released in a major health publication points out that while obese individuals can lose substantial amounts of their body weight while on the medication, the mass is regained at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"Users purchasing such treatments should be informed of the danger of fast rebound weight gain when the therapy is stopped," stated lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain implies a return to pre-treatment weight within about a year and a half.
Analyzing Treatments
The study, which looked at 37 of studies involving thousands of participants, compared the outcomes of GLP-1 agonists with conventional dieting.
The team emphasize that individuals who shed pounds through diet and exercise usually have a slower creep back—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
Explaining the Quick Rebound
Nutrition scientists suggest the mechanism of the drugs explains the accelerated rebound.
These medications copy a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate hunger.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone levels several times higher than normal could lead to the system to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and could reduce responsiveness to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Discontinuation of this medication means appetite is unsuppressed, making binge eating much more probable."
A Chronic Disease?
Medical guidelines suggest the injections for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians say that, given the likelihood of relapse, the therapy is often long-term.
This view is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the findings "highlight the long-term nature of excess weight," comparing it to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
User Experiences
Individuals who have stopped the jabs explain a powerful resurgence of appetite.
"I experienced a switch flipping and you become ravenous," said one woman.
The struggle is worsened if patients have not established permanent dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Growing Use
Survey data indicate that millions of adults in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with desire continuing to grow.
- Use is greater among females compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, researchers stress that while the jabs are potent tools for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone solution and lasting health benefits likely depends on combined lifestyle support.
