Fresh analysis reveals that patients who stop using popular weight-loss injections like semaglutide or tirzepatide may regain shed pounds far faster than those who stop conventional diet and exercise regimens.
Findings released in a prominent medical journal points out that while overweight people can lose about a fifth of their body weight while using the jabs, the mass is regained at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Users using such medications should be informed of the risk of quick rebound weight gain when the medication concludes," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery means a return to pre-treatment weight within about a year and a half.
Analyzing Therapies
The research, which looked at 37 of trials involving thousands of participants, contrasted the results of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
Scientists point out that people who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone usually see a slower creep back—approximately 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Understanding the Rapid Rebound
Experts propose the way of the jabs accounts for the accelerated rebound.
These medications copy a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 levels several times higher than normal might result in the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and may also lessen responsiveness to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Discontinuation of this GLP-1 'fix' leads to hunger is uncontrolled, making excessive eating a significant risk."
An Ongoing Issue?
Medical guidelines advise the jabs for people with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts contend that, given the significant potential of weight regain, the treatment should be considered life-long.
This view is supported by drug manufacturers, who say that the results "underscore the long-term nature of excess weight," akin to managing diseases like diabetes.
User Testimonies
People who have discontinued the jabs report a intense return of appetite.
"It felt as if a trigger that goes on and you become extremely hungry," recalled one woman.
This challenge is compounded if users have not developed lasting dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Growing Adoption
Figures show that a significant number of people in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with demand being substantial.
- Adoption is more common among women compared to men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- Many access the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Ultimately, researchers caution that while the jabs are effective tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent solution and lasting health benefits hinges on combined lifestyle management.
