New research reveals that individuals who stop using new weight-loss injections like semaglutide or tirzepatide tend to recover shed pounds at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop traditional lifestyle plans.
Findings released in a prominent health publication points out that while obese people frequently drop about a fifth of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the mass is regained at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Individuals using such treatments need to be aware of the potential of fast rebound weight gain when the medication ends," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain suggests a return to original weight within about one and a half years.
Weighing Approaches
The analysis, which looked at dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the effects of the injectable medications with other pills.
The team note that individuals who lose weight through diet and exercise usually see a slower weight regain—approximately 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
The Reason for the Quick Regain
Nutrition scientists believe the mode of action of the drugs is key to understanding the amplified weight return.
GLP-1 drugs copy a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than normal could lead to the body to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and could diminish sensitivity to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement results in appetite is unsuppressed, making excessive eating a significant risk."
An Ongoing Condition?
Medical guidelines advise the jabs for individuals with obesity-related health risks, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
Professionals contend that, due to the high risk of weight regain, the therapy might need to be long-term.
This opinion is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the findings "underscore the long-term character of obesity," similar to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
User Accounts
Individuals who have stopped the jabs report a intense resurgence of appetite.
"It was like something activating and I was suddenly ravenous," described an individual.
This difficulty is worsened if patients have not adopted sustainable lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Growing Use
Survey data show that millions of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with interest continuing to grow.
- Use is higher among females compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Ultimately, researchers caution that while these medications are effective tools for weight loss, they are not a magic cure and maintained weight loss likely depends on ongoing behavioural management.
