New research reveals that people who come off blockbuster weight-loss injections like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on shed pounds at a significantly accelerated pace than those who end traditional diet and exercise plans.
Research printed in a major medical journal shows that while obese individuals frequently drop about a fifth of their total mass while on the medication, the mass is regained at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"People buying these medications must be cognizant of the danger of quick weight regain when the therapy ends," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery suggests a reversion to pre-treatment weight in about 18 months.
Comparing Treatments
The analysis, which examined 37 of studies involving thousands of patients, compared the results of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
Researchers point out that individuals who lose weight through dieting typically experience a more gradual weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
The Reason for the Rapid Rebound
Nutrition scientists propose the mode of action of the jabs explains the amplified weight return.
The injections copy a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates hunger.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 levels several times higher than normal might result in the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and could lessen responsiveness to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' results in hunger is unsuppressed, making binge eating far more likely."
A Lifelong Issue?
Health authorities advise the jabs for individuals with obesity-related health risks, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians argue that, given the high risk of weight regain, the treatment should be considered long-term.
This view is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the findings "underscore the chronic character of excess weight," comparing it to managing diseases like hypertension.
User Accounts
Individuals who have discontinued the jabs report a intense resurgence of appetite.
"It felt as if something that goes on and you become ravenous," described an individual.
This difficulty is exacerbated if patients have not established sustainable dietary or behavioural modifications during treatment.
Widespread Adoption
Recent estimates show that millions of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with interest being substantial.
- Adoption is higher among females than men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest usage rates.
- Many access the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, experts emphasize that while the jabs are potent agents for weight loss, they are not a standalone fix and maintained weight loss relies on combined behavioural changes.
