A recent study reveals that people who stop using new weight-loss injections like semaglutide or tirzepatide may regain shed pounds far faster than those who halt traditional lifestyle regimens.
Research printed in a prominent medical journal demonstrates that while overweight individuals often shed about a fifth of their total mass while on the medication, the mass is regained at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"People using such medications must be informed of the risk of fast weight regain when the therapy ends," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain suggests a reversion to pre-treatment weight in about 18 months.
Comparing Treatments
The study, which examined dozens of trials involving thousands of participants, contrasted the effects of GLP-1 agonists with older methods.
The team emphasize that people who lose weight through dieting generally see a slower weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
The Reason for the Quick Rebound
Experts believe the mode of action of the jabs accounts for the accelerated rebound.
These medications mimic a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of the hormone levels several times higher than the body's typical production might result in the system to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and could diminish responsiveness to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement leads to appetite is unsuppressed, making overeating much more probable."
A Chronic Condition?
Health authorities recommend the injections for people with obesity-related health risks, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals say that, given the high risk of relapse, the treatment might need to be long-term.
This opinion is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the findings "underscore the long-term character of excess weight," akin to managing diseases like diabetes.
User Testimonies
People who have stopped the medication describe a intense return of cravings.
"I experienced a switch flipping and I was suddenly ravenous," said one woman.
The struggle is compounded if patients have not developed permanent lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Growing Adoption
Survey data show that millions of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with interest being substantial.
- Adoption is greater among females than males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, clinicians emphasize that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful tools for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone fix and maintained weight loss likely depends on integrated lifestyle support.
