Fresh analysis reveals that patients who stop using popular weight-loss injections like semaglutide or tirzepatide tend to recover reduced body mass much more quickly than those who end conventional diet and exercise programs.
Research printed in a leading health publication demonstrates that while obese people can lose about a fifth of their body weight while using the jabs, the mass returns at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"People using these medications must be aware of the risk of fast weight regain when the treatment ends," stated lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain implies a reversion to starting weight within about 18 months.
Analyzing Therapies
The research, which examined dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the results of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
The team point out that individuals who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone typically have a slower creep back—around 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Explaining the Quick Rebound
Doctors suggest the mode of action of the drugs explains the accelerated rebound.
These medications imitate a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls appetite.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 levels several times higher than normal could lead to the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and could lessen responsiveness to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' means hunger is unsuppressed, making binge eating much more probable."
An Ongoing Issue?
The NHS suggest the injections for people with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals contend that, due to the high risk of relapse, the therapy might need to be ongoing.
This view is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who note that the results "emphasize the chronic character of excess weight," similar to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Testimonies
Individuals who have come off the jabs describe a sudden resurgence of appetite.
"It felt as if a switch flipping and I was suddenly extremely hungry," recalled a patient.
This difficulty is exacerbated if patients have not established permanent dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Widespread Use
Recent estimates indicate that a significant number of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with desire being substantial.
- Adoption is greater among women compared to men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, experts emphasize that while these medications are effective tools for weight loss, they are not a magic fix and lasting health benefits relies on combined behavioural changes.
