A recent study reveals that people who come off blockbuster weight-loss injections like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on reduced body mass far faster than those who stop conventional lifestyle programs.
Research printed in a prominent health publication demonstrates that while obese individuals often shed a large proportion of their total mass while using the jabs, the weight comes back at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Users purchasing such drugs need to be aware of the danger of fast weight regain when the therapy ends," stated lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain suggests a reversion to starting mass in about one and a half years.
Weighing Therapies
The research, which examined dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the results of the injectable medications with other pills.
The team note that people who shed pounds through dieting usually experience a less rapid weight regain—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
The Reason for the Quick Rebound
Doctors propose the way of the injections explains the heightened rebound.
These medications mimic a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls appetite.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 levels far above than the body's typical production might result in the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and could reduce sensitivity to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement means appetite is no longer kept in check, making binge eating a significant risk."
An Ongoing Disease?
Medical guidelines suggest the injections for individuals with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Many experts say that, considering the likelihood of relapse, the therapy is often life-long.
This opinion is supported by drug manufacturers, who state that the findings "highlight the chronic character of obesity," comparing it to managing diseases like hypertension.
User Accounts
People who have come off the jabs describe a sudden resurgence of hunger.
"I experienced something flipping and you become starving," recalled a patient.
The struggle is exacerbated if users have not developed permanent dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Widespread Adoption
Recent estimates indicate that millions of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with demand remaining high.
- Use is more common among females compared to men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Finally, researchers emphasize that while the jabs are powerful agents for weight loss, they are not a magic fix and maintained weight loss relies on ongoing behavioural changes.
