Fresh analysis indicates that individuals who come off blockbuster weight-loss injections like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on shed pounds far faster than those who halt conventional diet and exercise plans.
Research printed in a leading health publication points out that while obese people often shed a large proportion of their total mass while using the jabs, the mass is regained at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Individuals using these medications should be aware of the danger of rapid weight regain when the medication is stopped," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery suggests a reversion to original mass within about one and a half years.
Analyzing Treatments
The research, which reviewed 37 of trials involving thousands of participants, compared the outcomes of these new drugs with older methods.
The team emphasize that people who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone usually have a less rapid weight regain—around 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
The Reason for the Quick Regain
Doctors propose the mechanism of the injections explains the amplified rebound.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production may cause the body to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and may also reduce sensitivity to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' leads to appetite is unsuppressed, making overeating far more likely."
An Ongoing Condition?
Medical guidelines suggest the jabs for individuals with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals argue that, due to the significant potential of weight regain, the treatment should be considered ongoing.
This view is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the results "highlight the persistent nature of excess weight," akin to managing conditions like diabetes.
User Accounts
People who have discontinued the jabs report a intense resurgence of cravings.
"It felt as if something flipping and you become ravenous," recalled one woman.
This challenge is exacerbated if patients have not developed sustainable lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Widespread Use
Survey data indicate that millions of people in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with desire continuing to grow.
- Use is more common among women compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest usage rates.
- Many access the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, researchers caution that while the jabs are potent tools for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone fix and long-term success likely depends on ongoing lifestyle changes.
