A recent study indicates that people who stop using popular weight-loss injections like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on lost weight far faster than those who end traditional lifestyle plans.
Findings released in a prominent medical journal demonstrates that while overweight individuals can lose about a fifth of their total mass while on the medication, the mass returns at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Individuals purchasing these medications must be informed of the potential of fast rebound weight gain when the therapy is stopped," stated lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain means a reversion to starting weight within about 18 months.
Analyzing Approaches
The study, which looked at dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the effects of these new drugs with other pills.
The team emphasize that individuals who shed pounds through dieting typically have a more gradual weight regain—perhaps 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
The Reason for the Fast Regain
Nutrition scientists suggest the mechanism of the drugs is key to understanding the heightened weight return.
These medications imitate a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Artificially providing the hormone levels several times higher than the body's typical production might result in the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and could diminish responsiveness to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Withdrawal of this medication means appetite is no longer kept in check, making overeating far more likely."
A Lifelong Issue?
Health authorities recommend the jabs for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals contend that, considering the high risk of relapse, the therapy should be considered long-term.
This view is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the findings "underscore the long-term nature of obesity," akin to managing diseases like diabetes.
User Accounts
Users who have come off the medication explain a sudden resurgence of cravings.
"It felt as if something activating and I was suddenly extremely hungry," described a patient.
This challenge is worsened if patients have not adopted permanent lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Significant Adoption
Survey data show that millions of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with desire continuing to grow.
- Adoption is more common among females than men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, researchers caution that while these medications are powerful agents for weight loss, they are not a permanent solution and long-term success likely depends on ongoing lifestyle management.
