New research indicates that people who discontinue blockbuster weight-loss injections like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on lost weight much more quickly than those who stop traditional diet and exercise plans.
Findings released in a prominent health publication shows that while overweight people frequently drop a large proportion of their total mass while using the jabs, the weight comes back at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Users buying these drugs need to be aware of the potential of rapid rebound weight gain when the medication concludes," stated lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain implies a return to starting mass in about a year and a half.
Comparing Treatments
The study, which reviewed 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the outcomes of GLP-1 agonists with conventional dieting.
Scientists emphasize that individuals who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone usually experience a less rapid creep back—approximately 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
The Reason for the Rapid Rebound
Doctors propose the way of the jabs explains the heightened regain.
The injections copy a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which controls hunger.
"Long-term administration of the hormone concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production could lead to the system to produce less of its own natural hormone, and may also diminish sensitivity to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement means appetite is unsuppressed, making binge eating far more likely."
An Ongoing Condition?
Health authorities suggest the jabs for individuals with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals argue that, considering the high risk of weight regain, the therapy is often life-long.
This view is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the findings "highlight the chronic nature of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like diabetes.
User Experiences
Users who have come off the jabs report a sudden return of hunger.
"It was like a trigger flipping and you're instantly starving," said one woman.
This challenge is exacerbated if patients have not adopted lasting dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Growing Use
Figures suggest that a significant number of adults in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with demand continuing to grow.
- Adoption is more common among females than men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
In conclusion, researchers caution that while the jabs are potent tools for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent cure and long-term success likely depends on combined lifestyle support.
