New research indicates that individuals who discontinue blockbuster weight-loss injections like semaglutide or tirzepatide may regain shed pounds much more quickly than those who stop traditional lifestyle programs.
Research printed in a leading health publication shows that while obese people often shed substantial amounts of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the mass returns at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Individuals using such treatments need to be informed of the potential of rapid weight regain when the treatment ends," stated lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain means a reversion to pre-treatment mass in about 18 months.
Weighing Therapies
The analysis, which looked at dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the results of the injectable medications with other pills.
Scientists note that people who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone usually see a less rapid weight regain—around 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
The Reason for the Rapid Regain
Experts propose the mode of action of the jabs is key to understanding the accelerated weight return.
GLP-1 drugs copy a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which controls appetite.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 levels several times higher than the body's typical production might result in the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also lessen responsiveness to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Discontinuation of this medication means hunger is no longer kept in check, making binge eating a significant risk."
An Ongoing Condition?
Health authorities recommend the jabs for people with obesity-related health risks, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals say that, due to the high risk of relapse, the therapy might need to be ongoing.
This opinion is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the results "emphasize the long-term character of obesity," akin to managing diseases like hypertension.
User Accounts
People who have come off the medication report a sudden resurgence of hunger.
"I experienced something activating and you become starving," said a patient.
This difficulty is worsened if patients have not adopted lasting lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Growing Use
Recent estimates indicate that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with demand being substantial.
- Adoption is greater among women compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion access the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, researchers emphasize that while the jabs are effective tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent cure and lasting health benefits relies on integrated behavioural changes.
