New research suggests that individuals who stop using popular weight-loss injections like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on shed pounds at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop conventional diet and exercise regimens.
Findings released in a leading medical journal points out that while overweight people can lose a large proportion of their body weight while using the jabs, the weight comes back at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Individuals purchasing these drugs must be cognizant of the danger of quick weight regain when the therapy concludes," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain implies a reversion to pre-treatment mass in about a year and a half.
Analyzing Treatments
The study, which reviewed 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the outcomes of GLP-1 agonists with other pills.
The team point out that individuals who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone usually have a more gradual creep back—around 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
Explaining the Fast Rebound
Doctors suggest the mode of action of the jabs explains the heightened rebound.
These medications imitate a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of the hormone concentrations far above than normal may cause the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and may also lessen responsiveness to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' means appetite is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating much more probable."
A Lifelong Disease?
The NHS recommend the injections for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Professionals argue that, due to the likelihood of weight regain, the treatment should be considered ongoing.
This view is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the findings "highlight the chronic character of obesity," comparing it to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
Patient Testimonies
Individuals who have stopped the jabs describe a powerful resurgence of cravings.
"I experienced a trigger flipping and you're instantly ravenous," described one woman.
This challenge is compounded if individuals have not developed sustainable lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Widespread Use
Survey data indicate that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with demand being substantial.
- Use is higher among women compared to men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Ultimately, clinicians caution that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful agents for weight loss, they are not a standalone fix and maintained weight loss relies on ongoing behavioural support.
