New research suggests that people who discontinue new weight-loss injections like semaglutide or tirzepatide tend to recover shed pounds far faster than those who halt conventional diet and exercise plans.
Published data in a prominent health publication demonstrates that while overweight individuals frequently drop about a fifth of their total mass while using the jabs, the weight is regained at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"Individuals using these treatments must be cognizant of the danger of quick rebound weight gain when the treatment is stopped," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery means a return to starting mass in about 18 months.
Weighing Approaches
The research, which examined 37 of studies involving thousands of patients, contrasted the results of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
Researchers point out that individuals who shed pounds through dieting generally experience a less rapid creep back—approximately 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
Explaining the Quick Rebound
Experts propose the mechanism of the drugs explains the amplified regain.
The injections copy a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls appetite.
"Artificially providing the hormone levels several times higher than the body's typical production could lead to the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and could lessen responsiveness to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Stopping of this medication means appetite is unsuppressed, making binge eating much more probable."
A Chronic Disease?
Health authorities recommend the injections for individuals with obesity-related health risks, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
Professionals argue that, considering the high risk of relapse, the therapy might need to be long-term.
This opinion is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the results "highlight the long-term nature of obesity," akin to managing conditions like diabetes.
Patient Testimonies
People who have stopped the jabs report a intense resurgence of cravings.
"It was like a switch activating and I was suddenly starving," said one woman.
This difficulty is exacerbated if individuals have not adopted permanent dietary or behavioural modifications during treatment.
Growing Adoption
Figures show that millions of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with interest remaining high.
- Use is more common among females than men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
In conclusion, experts emphasize that while the jabs are powerful tools for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent fix and maintained weight loss hinges on ongoing lifestyle management.
