A recent study indicates that people who discontinue popular weight-loss injections like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on shed pounds much more quickly than those who end traditional diet and exercise plans.
Published data in a leading medical journal points out that while overweight people often shed substantial amounts of their total mass while using the jabs, the weight returns at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"Individuals using such treatments need to be aware of the potential of rapid weight regain when the treatment ends," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain implies a reversion to pre-treatment weight within about 18 months.
Comparing Treatments
The research, which reviewed 37 of trials involving thousands of patients, contrasted the outcomes of these new drugs with other pills.
Researchers note that individuals who shed pounds through dieting generally experience a more gradual weight regain—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Understanding the Quick Rebound
Nutrition scientists believe the way of the jabs explains the heightened rebound.
These medications imitate a natural hormone called GLP-1, which moderates hunger.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production could lead to the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and may also diminish responsiveness to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Discontinuation of this medication results in appetite is uncontrolled, making excessive eating much more probable."
An Ongoing Disease?
The NHS recommend the injections for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Professionals contend that, due to the high risk of weight regain, the treatment might need to be ongoing.
This perspective is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who say that the findings "emphasize the long-term character of obesity," comparing it to managing diseases like hypertension.
User Testimonies
People who have come off the medication report a sudden resurgence of appetite.
"It felt as if a switch activating and you become extremely hungry," recalled one woman.
This challenge is worsened if individuals have not adopted permanent lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Widespread Interest
Recent estimates indicate that millions of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with demand being substantial.
- Use is greater among females compared to men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Ultimately, clinicians caution that while the jabs are powerful tools for weight loss, they are not a standalone fix and long-term success relies on integrated lifestyle changes.
