A recent study suggests that people who stop using blockbuster weight-loss injections like semaglutide or tirzepatide may regain reduced body mass far faster than those who stop traditional lifestyle programs.
Findings released in a leading health publication demonstrates that while overweight individuals frequently drop substantial amounts of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the mass returns at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Individuals using such medications should be aware of the potential of fast weight regain when the treatment ends," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery implies a return to starting weight within about a year and a half.
Analyzing Therapies
The analysis, which looked at dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the effects of GLP-1 agonists with conventional dieting.
Researchers emphasize that people who lose weight through dieting usually experience a slower weight regain—around 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
The Reason for the Quick Regain
Doctors suggest the mechanism of the injections explains the heightened rebound.
GLP-1 drugs copy a natural hormone called GLP-1, which controls hunger.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 concentrations far above than the body's typical production might result in the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and could diminish sensitivity to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement means hunger is uncontrolled, making overeating a significant risk."
An Ongoing Issue?
Health authorities advise the jabs for individuals with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts argue that, due to the likelihood of weight regain, the therapy is often life-long.
This view is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who state that the findings "underscore the long-term character of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
User Accounts
Users who have come off the jabs explain a sudden resurgence of appetite.
"It felt as if a trigger that goes on and you're instantly starving," described an individual.
The struggle is exacerbated if users have not adopted sustainable dietary or behavioural modifications during treatment.
Growing Use
Recent estimates show that millions of people in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with demand being substantial.
- Adoption is greater among women than males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Ultimately, experts stress that while GLP-1 drugs are effective tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent cure and maintained weight loss hinges on ongoing lifestyle management.
