A recent study suggests that individuals who come off popular weight-loss injections like semaglutide or tirzepatide may regain shed pounds much more quickly than those who stop conventional diet and exercise programs.
Research printed in a major health publication shows that while obese people can lose about a fifth of their body weight while on the medication, the mass returns at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"People using these drugs must be informed of the danger of fast weight regain when the medication is stopped," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery means a return to original mass within about 18 months.
Analyzing Therapies
The research, which looked at 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the effects of the injectable medications with other pills.
Scientists note that people who lose weight through dieting generally have a more gradual creep back—around 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
The Reason for the Quick Regain
Doctors believe the way of the jabs is key to understanding the heightened weight return.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates appetite.
"Long-term administration of the hormone levels several times higher than normal could lead to the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and could lessen responsiveness to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Withdrawal of this medication leads to hunger is uncontrolled, making binge eating much more probable."
An Ongoing Issue?
The NHS advise the jabs for individuals with weight-linked health risks, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
Professionals say that, due to the high risk of weight regain, the therapy should be considered life-long.
This perspective is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who say that the results "highlight the persistent nature of obesity," similar to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Testimonies
People who have discontinued the medication describe a intense return of cravings.
"It was like something that goes on and you're instantly ravenous," said an individual.
The struggle is exacerbated if patients have not established lasting lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Significant Adoption
Survey data suggest that millions of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with interest remaining high.
- Adoption is more common among females than males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Finally, researchers stress that while these medications are effective agents for shedding pounds, they are not a magic solution and long-term success likely depends on combined behavioural management.
