New research suggests that people who stop using popular weight-loss injections like semaglutide or tirzepatide may regain reduced body mass much more quickly than those who end conventional diet and exercise regimens.
Findings released in a major medical journal points out that while obese individuals often shed a large proportion of their total mass while using the jabs, the weight comes back at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"People purchasing these medications need to be cognizant of the risk of rapid rebound weight gain when the treatment concludes," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain means a reversion to starting mass within about a year and a half.
Analyzing Approaches
The study, which examined dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the results of these new drugs with other pills.
Researchers note that people who shed pounds through diet and exercise typically see a less rapid weight regain—approximately 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
Explaining the Fast Regain
Nutrition scientists propose the mechanism of the injections accounts for the heightened rebound.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates hunger.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production may cause the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and may also lessen sensitivity to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Discontinuation of this GLP-1 'fix' means hunger is unsuppressed, making excessive eating far more likely."
A Chronic Disease?
The NHS recommend the jabs for people with obesity-related health risks, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts say that, due to the significant potential of relapse, the therapy is often long-term.
This view is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the results "highlight the long-term nature of excess weight," akin to managing conditions like hypertension.
User Accounts
Users who have discontinued the medication explain a sudden return of hunger.
"It felt as if a switch that goes on and you're instantly extremely hungry," recalled an individual.
The struggle is worsened if individuals have not adopted sustainable lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Widespread Use
Figures show that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with desire being substantial.
- Use is higher among females compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, clinicians emphasize that while these medications are powerful agents for weight loss, they are not a permanent cure and maintained weight loss likely depends on ongoing behavioural management.
