A recent study indicates that individuals who stop using new weight-loss injections like semaglutide or tirzepatide tend to recover lost weight far faster than those who end traditional diet and exercise programs.
Findings released in a prominent health publication shows that while obese individuals frequently drop substantial amounts of their total mass while on the medication, the weight is regained at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Individuals using these drugs need to be informed of the potential of quick weight regain when the therapy is stopped," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery suggests a reversion to pre-treatment weight in about a year and a half.
Weighing Treatments
The research, which looked at dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the effects of GLP-1 agonists with other pills.
Researchers point out that people who lose weight through diet and exercise usually experience a slower weight regain—approximately 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
Understanding the Fast Rebound
Doctors propose the mode of action of the injections is key to understanding the accelerated weight return.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a natural hormone called GLP-1, which moderates appetite.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone levels far above than the body's typical production could lead to the body to produce less of its own natural hormone, and may also lessen sensitivity to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement means appetite is unsuppressed, making overeating far more likely."
A Lifelong Issue?
Medical guidelines suggest the jabs for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Professionals argue that, due to the high risk of relapse, the treatment is often life-long.
This view is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who note that the results "emphasize the long-term character of excess weight," akin to managing conditions like diabetes.
User Accounts
Users who have discontinued the medication report a sudden return of appetite.
"It felt as if a switch that goes on and you're instantly extremely hungry," recalled one woman.
The struggle is worsened if users have not established sustainable lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Growing Use
Figures suggest that millions of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with interest remaining high.
- Adoption is higher among women than men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Finally, researchers caution that while these medications are effective agents for shedding pounds, they are not a magic cure and maintained weight loss hinges on integrated lifestyle support.
