Fresh analysis reveals that individuals who discontinue new weight-loss injections like semaglutide or tirzepatide may regain reduced body mass much more quickly than those who stop conventional diet and exercise programs.
Published data in a prominent medical journal points out that while obese individuals often shed about a fifth of their body weight while on the medication, the mass returns at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Users purchasing these drugs must be cognizant of the risk of quick rebound weight gain when the treatment concludes," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain implies a return to starting mass within about one and a half years.
Analyzing Therapies
The study, which examined 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the effects of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
Scientists note that individuals who lose weight through dieting usually see a more gradual weight regain—approximately 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
Explaining the Quick Regain
Nutrition scientists believe the way of the drugs is key to understanding the amplified rebound.
The injections copy a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls hunger.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 levels far above than normal might result in the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and may also diminish responsiveness to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Discontinuation of this GLP-1 'fix' means hunger is no longer kept in check, making overeating far more likely."
An Ongoing Issue?
Health authorities recommend the jabs for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Many experts contend that, given the likelihood of relapse, the treatment might need to be life-long.
This view is echoed by drug manufacturers, who note that the findings "emphasize the chronic nature of obesity," akin to managing conditions like hypertension.
User Accounts
Individuals who have come off the medication report a sudden resurgence of cravings.
"It felt as if a trigger activating and you're instantly ravenous," described a patient.
This challenge is exacerbated if users have not developed permanent dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Significant Adoption
Recent estimates indicate that millions of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with desire being substantial.
- Adoption is greater among females than men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Ultimately, researchers stress that while these medications are powerful tools for weight loss, they are not a magic fix and maintained weight loss likely depends on integrated lifestyle changes.
