New research reveals that people who discontinue popular weight-loss injections like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on shed pounds far faster than those who stop traditional diet and exercise programs.
Published data in a prominent health publication shows that while overweight people often shed a large proportion of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the weight returns at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Users purchasing such drugs should be informed of the danger of fast rebound weight gain when the treatment is stopped," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain suggests a reversion to original weight within about one and a half years.
Comparing Therapies
The analysis, which reviewed 37 of trials involving thousands of patients, contrasted the results of the injectable medications with other pills.
Scientists point out that individuals who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone generally experience a more gradual weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Explaining the Quick Regain
Experts believe the mode of action of the injections is key to understanding the heightened rebound.
The injections mimic a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 concentrations far above than normal could lead to the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also reduce sensitivity to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement means appetite is unsuppressed, making overeating a significant risk."
A Chronic Condition?
Medical guidelines suggest the jabs for people with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Professionals say that, considering the likelihood of relapse, the therapy might need to be life-long.
This opinion is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the findings "highlight the persistent character of excess weight," comparing it to managing diseases like hypertension.
Patient Accounts
Users who have stopped the jabs describe a powerful return of hunger.
"It felt as if a trigger that goes on and I was suddenly starving," described an individual.
This difficulty is compounded if individuals have not established lasting dietary or behavioural modifications during treatment.
Widespread Use
Recent estimates indicate that millions of people in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with desire continuing to grow.
- Use is higher among women compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest level of interest.
- Many access the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, researchers caution that while the jabs are effective agents for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone fix and long-term success relies on ongoing behavioural changes.
