A recent study reveals that individuals who stop using popular weight-loss injections like semaglutide or tirzepatide tend to recover shed pounds far faster than those who stop traditional lifestyle programs.
Published data in a leading health publication points out that while overweight people can lose a large proportion of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the weight is regained at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Individuals using such drugs should be aware of the potential of quick rebound weight gain when the therapy is stopped," stated lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery suggests a return to pre-treatment mass in about one and a half years.
Weighing Treatments
The study, which reviewed 37 of studies involving thousands of participants, compared the results of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
Researchers emphasize that individuals who shed pounds through dieting typically have a slower creep back—around 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
Explaining the Rapid Rebound
Experts believe the mode of action of the injections explains the heightened weight return.
GLP-1 drugs copy a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production could lead to the body to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and may also reduce sensitivity to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Discontinuation of this medication means hunger is no longer kept in check, making binge eating much more probable."
An Ongoing Condition?
The NHS advise the injections for people with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts contend that, given the significant potential of relapse, the treatment might need to be ongoing.
This view is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the results "underscore the long-term nature of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like diabetes.
User Experiences
People who have stopped the jabs explain a sudden return of hunger.
"I experienced something that goes on and I was suddenly ravenous," said one woman.
This challenge is exacerbated if individuals have not developed lasting lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Significant Adoption
Survey data suggest that millions of adults in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with interest remaining high.
- Adoption is greater among females than males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Finally, experts emphasize that while GLP-1 drugs are potent tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent cure and lasting health benefits relies on ongoing lifestyle management.
