A recent study suggests that people who come off popular weight-loss injections like semaglutide or tirzepatide may regain shed pounds far faster than those who stop traditional lifestyle programs.
Published data in a prominent medical journal shows that while overweight people often shed about a fifth of their body weight while using the jabs, the weight comes back at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Users purchasing these treatments should be aware of the potential of quick weight regain when the medication ends," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain means a reversion to original mass in about one and a half years.
Analyzing Treatments
The research, which reviewed dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the outcomes of the injectable medications with older methods.
Scientists emphasize that individuals who lose weight through dieting usually experience a less rapid creep back—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
The Reason for the Fast Rebound
Nutrition scientists believe the way of the drugs is key to understanding the amplified regain.
These medications mimic a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls hunger.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 levels several times higher than normal could lead to the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and could diminish sensitivity to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Discontinuation of this GLP-1 'fix' leads to appetite is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating far more likely."
An Ongoing Disease?
Medical guidelines suggest the injections for people with obesity-related health risks, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
Professionals contend that, considering the significant potential of relapse, the therapy should be considered life-long.
This perspective is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who state that the results "emphasize the persistent nature of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like hypertension.
Patient Experiences
People who have come off the medication explain a powerful resurgence of hunger.
"It felt as if something that goes on and I was suddenly starving," recalled a patient.
The struggle is compounded if users have not adopted lasting dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Widespread Adoption
Survey data suggest that a significant number of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with desire being substantial.
- Use is higher among women compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, researchers stress that while these medications are potent tools for weight loss, they are not a standalone fix and lasting health benefits hinges on integrated lifestyle management.
