Fresh analysis reveals that people who stop using popular weight-loss injections like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on shed pounds much more quickly than those who stop traditional lifestyle regimens.
Published data in a major health publication demonstrates that while obese individuals often shed substantial amounts of their total mass while on the medication, the mass returns at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Users using these treatments should be aware of the potential of quick rebound weight gain when the treatment ends," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain means a return to pre-treatment mass within about one and a half years.
Comparing Approaches
The study, which examined dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the outcomes of these new drugs with older methods.
Scientists point out that individuals who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone typically experience a slower creep back—around 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
The Reason for the Rapid Regain
Nutrition scientists propose the mode of action of the injections is key to understanding the amplified weight return.
These medications copy a natural hormone called GLP-1, which controls hunger.
"Long-term administration of the hormone concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production may cause the system to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and may also lessen responsiveness to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' results in appetite is no longer kept in check, making overeating far more likely."
A Chronic Condition?
Health authorities recommend the injections for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts argue that, given the likelihood of relapse, the therapy might need to be ongoing.
This perspective is supported by drug manufacturers, who say that the findings "emphasize the long-term nature of excess weight," similar to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Accounts
People who have come off the medication report a sudden resurgence of cravings.
"It felt as if something flipping and you're instantly starving," described an individual.
This difficulty is worsened if users have not adopted lasting lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Widespread Use
Recent estimates suggest that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with demand remaining high.
- Use is greater among women than males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
In conclusion, researchers caution that while these medications are powerful agents for weight loss, they are not a permanent fix and maintained weight loss relies on ongoing behavioural changes.
