A recent study reveals that people who stop using new weight-loss injections like semaglutide or tirzepatide tend to recover shed pounds much more quickly than those who end traditional diet and exercise programs.
Findings released in a leading medical journal points out that while overweight individuals often shed substantial amounts of their total mass while on the medication, the weight is regained at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Users using these drugs should be cognizant of the potential of quick weight regain when the treatment is stopped," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain suggests a return to starting mass in about one and a half years.
Analyzing Treatments
The study, which examined dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the outcomes of the injectable medications with older methods.
The team emphasize that people who lose weight through dieting usually see a less rapid creep back—approximately 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
Explaining the Rapid Rebound
Experts propose the way of the injections explains the amplified rebound.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a natural hormone called GLP-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 concentrations far above than normal may cause the body to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and could lessen responsiveness to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Withdrawal of this medication results in appetite is no longer kept in check, making overeating much more probable."
An Ongoing Disease?
Health authorities recommend the jabs for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
Professionals contend that, given the significant potential of relapse, the therapy might need to be long-term.
This view is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the results "emphasize the chronic nature of obesity," similar to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Testimonies
People who have come off the jabs describe a powerful resurgence of hunger.
"It was like a switch that goes on and you become ravenous," described an individual.
This challenge is exacerbated if users have not developed lasting dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Widespread Interest
Recent estimates indicate that a significant number of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with interest continuing to grow.
- Adoption is greater among females than men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- Many access the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Ultimately, researchers caution that while these medications are potent tools for weight loss, they are not a standalone cure and maintained weight loss likely depends on ongoing lifestyle changes.
