Fresh analysis indicates that individuals who discontinue blockbuster weight-loss injections like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on shed pounds much more quickly than those who stop traditional lifestyle programs.
Findings released in a leading medical journal shows that while overweight people frequently drop about a fifth of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the weight is regained at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Users using these treatments need to be informed of the danger of quick weight regain when the therapy concludes," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain suggests a return to starting weight in about a year and a half.
Weighing Approaches
The research, which looked at 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the results of the injectable medications with other pills.
Researchers point out that individuals who lose weight through dieting generally see a slower weight regain—around 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
Explaining the Fast Rebound
Doctors believe the mechanism of the drugs is key to understanding the heightened rebound.
GLP-1 drugs copy a natural hormone called GLP-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 concentrations far above than the body's typical production could lead to the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also diminish responsiveness to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement results in hunger is unsuppressed, making overeating a significant risk."
A Chronic Disease?
Medical guidelines advise the jabs for people with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals argue that, due to the significant potential of weight regain, the therapy is often life-long.
This opinion is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the results "highlight the chronic nature of excess weight," akin to managing diseases like hypertension.
User Accounts
Users who have come off the jabs report a powerful return of hunger.
"It felt as if a switch that goes on and I was suddenly extremely hungry," said an individual.
This challenge is exacerbated if patients have not adopted lasting dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Growing Use
Recent estimates show that a significant number of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with desire continuing to grow.
- Adoption is more common among women compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Ultimately, clinicians stress that while GLP-1 drugs are effective tools for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent solution and long-term success relies on combined behavioural support.
