New research suggests that people who come off popular weight-loss injections like semaglutide or tirzepatide may regain shed pounds far faster than those who stop conventional diet and exercise programs.
Findings released in a leading health publication shows that while overweight people can lose substantial amounts of their body weight while on the medication, the weight comes back at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"Individuals buying these treatments must be cognizant of the risk of rapid rebound weight gain when the treatment ends," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain means a reversion to original mass within about 18 months.
Comparing Approaches
The analysis, which examined dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the results of GLP-1 agonists with conventional dieting.
The team point out that individuals who lose weight through diet and exercise usually have a more gradual creep back—approximately 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
The Reason for the Fast Rebound
Doctors believe the mechanism of the jabs explains the amplified rebound.
The injections imitate a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates appetite.
"Sustained high doses 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 lessen sensitivity to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement results in appetite is uncontrolled, making overeating far more likely."
An Ongoing Disease?
Medical guidelines recommend the injections for people with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
Professionals contend that, due to the significant potential of relapse, the treatment might need to be life-long.
This opinion is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who state that the findings "emphasize the persistent character of excess weight," comparing it to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
Patient Experiences
Users who have come off the medication report a sudden return of appetite.
"It was like something that goes on and you're instantly starving," recalled one woman.
The struggle is compounded if users have not adopted permanent lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Significant Interest
Figures suggest that a significant number of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with desire being substantial.
- Use is greater among females compared to men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, experts caution that while these medications are powerful agents for shedding pounds, they are not a magic cure and lasting health benefits hinges on ongoing lifestyle support.
