New research suggests that people who discontinue new weight-loss injections like semaglutide or tirzepatide may regain shed pounds much more quickly than those who halt conventional lifestyle programs.
Findings released in a major health publication shows that while obese individuals can lose about a fifth of their total mass while on the medication, the mass is regained at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Individuals purchasing such drugs should be aware of the potential of quick rebound weight gain when the treatment concludes," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery means a reversion to original weight in about a year and a half.
Weighing Treatments
The study, which looked at dozens of studies involving thousands of patients, compared the outcomes of GLP-1 agonists with conventional dieting.
The team emphasize that people who shed pounds through dieting usually have a slower weight regain—perhaps 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
The Reason for the Quick Regain
Experts suggest the mode of action of the jabs accounts for the heightened regain.
The injections imitate a natural hormone called GLP-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of the hormone levels several times higher than normal could lead to the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and could lessen responsiveness to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' results in appetite is unsuppressed, making excessive eating far more likely."
An Ongoing Condition?
Health authorities recommend the jabs for individuals with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians argue that, considering the significant potential of weight regain, the therapy should be considered long-term.
This opinion is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the results "highlight the chronic nature of obesity," akin to managing conditions like hypertension.
Patient Accounts
Individuals who have stopped the medication describe a intense return of cravings.
"It was like a switch activating and I was suddenly ravenous," said a patient.
This challenge is compounded if users have not established sustainable lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Significant Use
Figures indicate that millions of people in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with desire continuing to grow.
- Adoption is higher among women compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- Many access the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Finally, researchers stress that while the jabs are powerful agents for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone solution and lasting health benefits relies on ongoing behavioural management.
