A recent study reveals that individuals who stop using blockbuster weight-loss injections like semaglutide or tirzepatide may regain reduced body mass far faster than those who end traditional diet and exercise programs.
Research printed in a leading health publication shows that while obese individuals can lose about a fifth of their body weight while on the medication, the weight is regained at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Users purchasing these drugs must be aware of the danger of fast rebound weight gain when the treatment concludes," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain implies a return to pre-treatment weight in about 18 months.
Weighing Approaches
The analysis, which examined dozens of studies involving thousands of patients, contrasted the results of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
The team note that people who lose weight through dieting generally have a slower weight regain—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Explaining the Rapid Rebound
Doctors believe the way of the injections accounts for the amplified rebound.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing the hormone concentrations far above than the body's typical production could lead to the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and could lessen responsiveness to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Withdrawal of this medication leads to appetite is uncontrolled, making binge eating far more likely."
A Chronic Condition?
Health authorities suggest the jabs for people with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals say that, considering the likelihood of relapse, the therapy might need to be life-long.
This perspective is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the results "emphasize the long-term nature of excess weight," comparing it to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
Patient Accounts
Users who have discontinued the jabs describe a intense resurgence of appetite.
"It felt as if a switch activating and you become ravenous," recalled an individual.
The struggle is compounded if patients have not adopted lasting dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Growing Interest
Survey data suggest that a significant number of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with desire remaining high.
- Use is more common among women than males.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest usage rates.
- Many access the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, researchers stress that while these medications are effective agents for weight loss, they are not a standalone fix and maintained weight loss relies on ongoing behavioural support.
