Fresh analysis reveals that individuals who stop using popular weight-loss injections like semaglutide or tirzepatide tend to recover reduced body mass far faster than those who stop conventional lifestyle programs.
Research printed in a prominent medical journal shows that while obese people often shed substantial amounts of their total mass while on the medication, the weight comes back at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Users buying such medications should be cognizant of the potential of rapid rebound weight gain when the treatment is stopped," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain implies a reversion to pre-treatment mass in about a year and a half.
Comparing Approaches
The analysis, which reviewed dozens of trials involving thousands of participants, contrasted the outcomes of the injectable medications with older methods.
Scientists note that people who lose weight through diet and exercise generally have a slower weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Explaining the Fast Regain
Experts propose the mode of action of the injections accounts for the heightened regain.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a natural hormone called GLP-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing the hormone levels far above than normal may cause the system to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and may also lessen sensitivity to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Discontinuation of this medication results in hunger is unsuppressed, making overeating much more probable."
An Ongoing Disease?
Health authorities suggest the injections for individuals with obesity-related health risks, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
Professionals contend that, considering the high risk of weight regain, the treatment might need to be ongoing.
This view is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the findings "highlight the persistent nature of obesity," akin to managing conditions like diabetes.
User Accounts
People who have come off the medication explain a powerful return of hunger.
"It felt as if something activating and you become starving," said an individual.
This challenge is compounded if patients have not established permanent lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Growing Use
Survey data indicate that a significant number of adults in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with desire remaining high.
- Adoption is greater among females than men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Finally, experts caution that while these medications are effective agents for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone fix and maintained weight loss relies on integrated behavioural changes.
