Fresh analysis reveals that people who discontinue blockbuster weight-loss injections like semaglutide or tirzepatide may regain shed pounds much more quickly than those who end traditional diet and exercise programs.
Research printed in a prominent medical journal demonstrates that while obese people frequently drop about a fifth of their total mass while using the jabs, the weight is regained at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Individuals purchasing these medications should be cognizant of the risk of rapid weight regain when the medication is stopped," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery implies a reversion to pre-treatment mass in about a year and a half.
Comparing Therapies
The study, which looked at 37 of trials involving thousands of patients, compared the outcomes of the injectable medications with other pills.
Researchers emphasize that people who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone typically see a more gradual creep back—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
The Reason for the Quick Rebound
Experts propose the way of the jabs accounts for the accelerated rebound.
The injections mimic a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 levels far above than normal could lead to the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and could diminish sensitivity to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement means appetite is uncontrolled, making binge eating much more probable."
An Ongoing Disease?
The NHS advise the injections for people with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians contend that, given the high risk of relapse, the therapy might need to be long-term.
This perspective is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who say that the findings "emphasize the persistent nature of obesity," similar to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
User Experiences
People who have come off the jabs explain a sudden return of cravings.
"It felt as if a trigger that goes on and you become extremely hungry," described an individual.
The struggle is exacerbated if users have not developed sustainable lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Growing Use
Figures show that a significant number of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with demand continuing to grow.
- Adoption is more common among women than men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Finally, experts stress that while the jabs are powerful tools for weight loss, they are not a magic solution and lasting health benefits hinges on combined behavioural support.
