Fresh analysis reveals that individuals who stop using blockbuster weight-loss injections like semaglutide or tirzepatide tend to recover reduced body mass much more quickly than those who end conventional diet and exercise regimens.
Published data in a prominent health publication demonstrates that while obese individuals can lose a large proportion of their total mass while on the medication, the weight is regained at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"People purchasing such treatments need to be cognizant of the danger of rapid rebound weight gain when the therapy concludes," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery suggests a reversion to pre-treatment mass in about a year and a half.
Weighing Therapies
The study, which examined 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the effects of the injectable medications with older methods.
The team note that people who lose weight through diet and exercise generally experience a slower creep back—around 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
The Reason for the Quick Rebound
Experts suggest the mechanism of the drugs explains the heightened regain.
These medications mimic a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate hunger.
"Artificially providing the hormone levels far above than the body's typical production might result in the system to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also diminish sensitivity to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement means hunger is no longer kept in check, making overeating far more likely."
A Chronic Disease?
Health authorities recommend the injections for individuals with obesity-related health risks, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
Many experts say that, considering the significant potential of weight regain, the treatment might need to be long-term.
This opinion is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the results "underscore the chronic character of obesity," akin to managing conditions like diabetes.
User Experiences
Users who have come off the jabs report a sudden resurgence of cravings.
"I experienced a trigger flipping and you're instantly extremely hungry," described an individual.
This challenge is exacerbated if individuals have not established lasting dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Growing Use
Recent estimates show that a significant number of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with desire being substantial.
- Use is more common among females than males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, experts stress that while the jabs are effective tools for weight loss, they are not a magic fix and lasting health benefits likely depends on ongoing lifestyle changes.
