New research indicates that individuals who stop using blockbuster weight-loss injections like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on lost weight at a significantly accelerated pace than those who halt conventional diet and exercise programs.
Research printed in a prominent health publication points out that while obese individuals can lose a large proportion of their body weight while using the jabs, the weight comes back at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"People purchasing these medications should be informed of the potential of fast rebound weight gain when the treatment ends," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain means a reversion to original mass within about 18 months.
Weighing Therapies
The study, which reviewed 37 of studies involving thousands of patients, contrasted the outcomes of the injectable medications with older methods.
The team emphasize that people who shed pounds through dieting generally see a less rapid creep back—perhaps 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
Explaining the Fast Rebound
Experts propose the mechanism of the drugs is key to understanding the heightened rebound.
These medications imitate a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 levels several times higher than the body's typical production may cause the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and may also diminish sensitivity to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Discontinuation of this medication leads to hunger is unsuppressed, making excessive eating a significant risk."
A Lifelong Issue?
Medical guidelines recommend the jabs for people with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts say that, considering the high risk of weight regain, the treatment should be considered life-long.
This opinion is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the results "emphasize the long-term nature of excess weight," similar to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
User Accounts
Individuals who have come off the jabs describe a powerful resurgence of appetite.
"It felt as if a switch flipping and you're instantly extremely hungry," described a patient.
This challenge is exacerbated if individuals have not established lasting dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Widespread Use
Recent estimates indicate that millions of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with desire continuing to grow.
- Adoption is higher among females compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- Many obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Finally, clinicians emphasize that while these medications are powerful tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent fix and maintained weight loss hinges on combined behavioural management.
