New research suggests that people who stop using new weight-loss injections like semaglutide or tirzepatide tend to recover lost weight much more quickly than those who halt conventional lifestyle plans.
Research printed in a leading medical journal shows that while obese individuals often shed a large proportion of their body weight while using the jabs, the weight comes back at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Users using these treatments must be cognizant of the danger of fast rebound weight gain when the medication concludes," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain means a return to starting mass in about one and a half years.
Analyzing Therapies
The research, which looked at dozens of studies involving thousands of participants, compared the outcomes of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
Scientists point out that people who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone generally experience a slower creep back—around 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
Explaining the Rapid Rebound
Doctors suggest the way of the drugs accounts for the heightened rebound.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 levels far above than normal could lead to the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also lessen responsiveness to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' results in appetite is unsuppressed, making excessive eating a significant risk."
A Chronic Disease?
Medical guidelines recommend the injections for people with obesity-related health risks, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
Professionals say that, given the significant potential of relapse, the treatment should be considered ongoing.
This opinion is echoed by drug manufacturers, who state that the findings "highlight the persistent nature of obesity," similar to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
Patient Experiences
People who have stopped the jabs report a intense resurgence of appetite.
"I experienced something flipping and you become extremely hungry," said an individual.
This difficulty is exacerbated if users have not adopted sustainable lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Widespread Interest
Figures show that a significant number of people in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with desire continuing to grow.
- Use is greater among females than men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many access the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Ultimately, clinicians caution that while these medications are potent agents for shedding pounds, they are not a magic solution and long-term success relies on integrated lifestyle support.
