A recent study reveals that individuals who come off new weight-loss injections like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on shed pounds much more quickly than those who halt traditional diet and exercise regimens.
Findings released in a leading health publication points out that while obese individuals can lose about a fifth of their body weight while using the jabs, the weight is regained at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"People using these treatments need to be informed of the risk of fast weight regain when the medication ends," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery implies a return to original weight within about 18 months.
Analyzing Approaches
The study, which reviewed 37 of studies involving thousands of participants, compared the results of these new drugs with older methods.
Scientists note that individuals who shed pounds through diet and exercise typically see a slower weight regain—perhaps 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
The Reason for the Quick Rebound
Doctors propose the mode of action of the jabs explains the accelerated regain.
The injections copy a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing the hormone concentrations several times higher than normal could lead to the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and could diminish responsiveness to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' results in appetite is no longer kept in check, making binge eating much more probable."
A Lifelong Issue?
The NHS advise the jabs for people with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Professionals say that, given the likelihood of relapse, the therapy should be considered life-long.
This view is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the findings "emphasize the persistent character of excess weight," akin to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
User Testimonies
Individuals who have discontinued the medication explain a powerful return of cravings.
"It was like a switch activating and you become starving," said a patient.
The struggle is compounded if users have not established lasting dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Growing Use
Recent estimates show that millions of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with desire continuing to grow.
- Adoption is more common among women than men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
In conclusion, experts emphasize that while the jabs are powerful agents for weight loss, they are not a magic solution and maintained weight loss likely depends on combined lifestyle management.
