Fresh analysis reveals that patients who stop using blockbuster weight-loss injections like semaglutide or tirzepatide may regain lost weight at a significantly accelerated pace than those who halt traditional lifestyle plans.
Research printed in a major health publication points out that while overweight people often shed substantial amounts of their total mass while on the medication, the weight is regained at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"People buying such medications should be aware of the danger of fast rebound weight gain when the therapy is stopped," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery means a return to starting mass in about a year and a half.
Analyzing Treatments
The study, which reviewed dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the results of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
Scientists emphasize that people who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone typically have a less rapid creep back—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
The Reason for the Rapid Rebound
Doctors suggest the way of the injections is key to understanding the amplified weight return.
These medications copy a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 levels several times higher than normal could lead to the system to produce less of its own natural hormone, and may also diminish responsiveness to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement leads to hunger is no longer kept in check, making overeating far more likely."
A Lifelong Condition?
Health authorities suggest the jabs for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts argue that, considering the likelihood of relapse, the treatment might need to be ongoing.
This opinion is supported by drug manufacturers, who say that the results "underscore the long-term nature of obesity," similar to managing diseases like hypertension.
User Testimonies
Individuals who have stopped the jabs explain a powerful resurgence of cravings.
"I experienced a trigger flipping and you're instantly extremely hungry," said one woman.
The struggle is compounded if individuals have not established permanent lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Significant Use
Recent estimates show that millions of people in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with demand continuing to grow.
- Use is greater among women compared to men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
In conclusion, experts stress that while GLP-1 drugs are effective tools for weight loss, they are not a standalone solution and maintained weight loss relies on ongoing behavioural changes.
