Fresh analysis indicates that people who stop using blockbuster weight-loss injections like semaglutide or tirzepatide tend to recover lost weight far faster than those who halt conventional lifestyle plans.
Findings released in a leading health publication shows that while obese individuals can lose substantial amounts of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the weight returns at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"People buying such treatments must be aware of the potential of quick rebound weight gain when the therapy ends," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery means a return to starting weight in about one and a half years.
Weighing Treatments
The research, which reviewed 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the effects of these new drugs with older methods.
Researchers point out that individuals who shed pounds through dieting typically experience a more gradual creep back—approximately 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
The Reason for the Quick Regain
Experts propose the mechanism of the drugs accounts for the amplified rebound.
These medications copy a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates hunger.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 levels several times higher than the body's typical production might result in the system to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and could reduce sensitivity to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' leads to appetite is uncontrolled, making binge eating much more probable."
A Chronic Condition?
The NHS advise the injections for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
Many experts contend that, given the significant potential of relapse, the treatment is often long-term.
This view is supported by drug manufacturers, who state that the results "underscore the long-term nature of excess weight," similar to managing diseases like diabetes.
User Experiences
People who have come off the jabs explain a sudden return of cravings.
"It felt as if a switch that goes on and I was suddenly starving," described a patient.
This challenge is compounded if patients have not established sustainable lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Widespread Interest
Recent estimates suggest that millions of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with demand being substantial.
- Adoption is higher among women than males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- Many obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, experts caution that while the jabs are powerful tools for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone cure and maintained weight loss likely depends on ongoing lifestyle changes.
