New research suggests that individuals who discontinue popular weight-loss injections like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on lost weight at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop conventional diet and exercise programs.
Findings released in a major medical journal points out that while obese individuals frequently drop substantial amounts of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the mass comes back at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"Users using such medications need to be cognizant of the danger of fast rebound weight gain when the medication is stopped," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain suggests a reversion to starting mass within about 18 months.
Weighing Treatments
The study, which looked at 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the effects of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
Researchers note that individuals who shed pounds through diet and exercise usually see a less rapid weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
The Reason for the Fast Rebound
Nutrition scientists suggest the way of the drugs explains the accelerated weight return.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a natural hormone called GLP-1, which moderates appetite.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than normal might result in the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and could lessen responsiveness to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement means hunger is unsuppressed, making overeating much more probable."
A Chronic Condition?
Health authorities suggest the injections for people with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians say that, due to the significant potential of weight regain, the treatment is often life-long.
This perspective is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the results "highlight the long-term nature of excess weight," comparing it to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
Patient Testimonies
Users who have stopped the jabs report a sudden resurgence of appetite.
"It was like something flipping and you become ravenous," recalled a patient.
The struggle is exacerbated if individuals have not established lasting lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Widespread Interest
Recent estimates indicate that millions of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with interest being substantial.
- Adoption is higher among women than men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many access the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, researchers emphasize that while GLP-1 drugs are effective tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent solution and maintained weight loss relies on combined behavioural management.
