Fresh analysis indicates that people who come off new weight-loss injections like semaglutide or tirzepatide may regain lost weight far faster than those who end traditional diet and exercise programs.
Published data in a leading health publication points out that while overweight people often shed about a fifth of their body weight while on the medication, the mass returns at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"People purchasing these treatments must be cognizant of the potential of quick weight regain when the medication ends," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery implies a return to original mass in about a year and a half.
Weighing Approaches
The research, which reviewed dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the outcomes of these new drugs with older methods.
The team emphasize that people who lose weight through diet and exercise generally have a less rapid weight regain—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Explaining the Quick Rebound
Experts believe the mechanism of the drugs explains the heightened regain.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a natural hormone called GLP-1, which controls hunger.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone concentrations far above than normal might result in the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also lessen responsiveness to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Stopping of this medication results in hunger is uncontrolled, making binge eating a significant risk."
An Ongoing Issue?
Medical guidelines advise the jabs for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians say that, considering the significant potential of relapse, the treatment is often life-long.
This view is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the findings "highlight the chronic nature of excess weight," comparing it to managing diseases like hypertension.
User Experiences
Individuals who have come off the jabs describe a sudden resurgence of appetite.
"It felt as if a trigger activating and you're instantly starving," described a patient.
The struggle is exacerbated if patients have not adopted lasting lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Widespread Adoption
Figures suggest that a significant number of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with interest continuing to grow.
- Use is higher among women than men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many access the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Ultimately, experts emphasize that while the jabs are powerful tools for shedding pounds, they are not a magic fix and maintained weight loss hinges on ongoing behavioural changes.
