A recent study suggests that people who stop using blockbuster weight-loss injections like semaglutide or tirzepatide may regain lost weight at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop traditional lifestyle programs.
Research printed in a prominent medical journal points out that while obese individuals often shed about a fifth of their body weight while on the medication, the mass is regained at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"People using these treatments need to be informed of the potential of rapid weight regain when the treatment ends," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain implies a reversion to pre-treatment weight within about a year and a half.
Comparing Treatments
The study, which reviewed 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the effects of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
Scientists note that people who shed pounds through dieting usually experience a less rapid creep back—perhaps 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
Explaining the Quick Rebound
Doctors suggest the mode of action of the injections accounts for the heightened weight return.
These medications copy a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls hunger.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production may cause the system to produce less of its own natural hormone, and could reduce responsiveness to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Discontinuation of this GLP-1 'fix' results in hunger is uncontrolled, making excessive eating a significant risk."
An Ongoing Issue?
Medical guidelines advise the jabs for people with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians say that, considering the likelihood of weight regain, the therapy might need to be ongoing.
This opinion is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the findings "underscore the persistent character of obesity," similar to managing diseases like hypertension.
User Accounts
People who have stopped the medication describe a sudden resurgence of appetite.
"I experienced a trigger that goes on and I was suddenly extremely hungry," described an individual.
This challenge is worsened if users have not established sustainable lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Growing Adoption
Figures suggest that millions of people in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with desire being substantial.
- Use is greater among women compared to men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
In conclusion, researchers stress that while the jabs are effective agents for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone fix and maintained weight loss likely depends on integrated lifestyle support.