A recent study reveals that individuals who come off popular weight-loss injections like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on shed pounds at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop traditional diet and exercise regimens.
Findings released in a leading health publication points out that while obese individuals frequently drop about a fifth of their total mass while on the medication, the mass returns at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Individuals purchasing such medications need to be aware of the risk of quick rebound weight gain when the treatment ends," stated lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain suggests a return to starting mass in about one and a half years.
Weighing Approaches
The analysis, which reviewed dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the outcomes of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
Scientists note that people who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone typically have a less rapid weight regain—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
The Reason for the Rapid Regain
Experts propose the way of the drugs is key to understanding the heightened weight return.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate hunger.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 levels far above than the body's typical production may cause the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and could reduce responsiveness to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement means hunger is uncontrolled, making overeating much more probable."
A Lifelong Condition?
Health authorities advise the injections for people with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
Many experts say that, given the likelihood of relapse, the therapy might need to be ongoing.
This view is supported by drug manufacturers, who note that the results "emphasize the persistent nature of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
User Accounts
Individuals who have discontinued the jabs describe a intense resurgence of cravings.
"I experienced a switch flipping and you become starving," recalled a patient.
This difficulty is worsened if individuals have not established lasting dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Growing Interest
Survey data show that millions of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with demand being substantial.
- Use is greater among females compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest usage rates.
- Many obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Finally, experts emphasize that while these medications are potent tools for weight loss, they are not a standalone cure and long-term success hinges on ongoing lifestyle changes.