New research reveals that patients who stop using new weight-loss injections like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on reduced body mass much more quickly than those who halt conventional diet and exercise regimens.
Research printed in a leading medical journal points out that while obese people can lose a large proportion of their total mass while using the jabs, the mass is regained at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"People buying such drugs need to be cognizant of the potential of rapid weight regain when the treatment is stopped," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain implies a reversion to original mass in about 18 months.
Comparing Approaches
The study, which examined 37 of trials involving thousands of patients, contrasted the results of GLP-1 agonists with older methods.
The team point out that people who lose weight through diet and exercise usually see a less rapid creep back—perhaps 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
Understanding the Rapid Rebound
Experts believe the mechanism of the injections is key to understanding the amplified weight return.
These medications copy a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls appetite.
"Artificially providing the hormone concentrations far above than normal could lead to the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and could diminish sensitivity to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement leads to hunger is unsuppressed, making overeating much more probable."
A Chronic Issue?
Medical guidelines recommend the injections for people with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts argue that, due to the likelihood of relapse, the treatment is often ongoing.
This opinion is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the results "emphasize the long-term nature of excess weight," similar to managing diseases like hypertension.
User Testimonies
Users who have come off the medication explain a powerful return of cravings.
"It felt as if something activating and you become ravenous," described one woman.
This challenge is exacerbated if individuals have not established sustainable dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Significant Interest
Figures indicate that a significant number of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with interest continuing to grow.
- Use is more common among women compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Finally, clinicians emphasize that while these medications are potent agents for weight loss, they are not a permanent cure and maintained weight loss relies on combined lifestyle support.
