A recent study suggests that patients who stop using blockbuster weight-loss injections like semaglutide or tirzepatide may regain lost weight far faster than those who end conventional diet and exercise programs.
Published data in a leading medical journal shows that while obese people can lose a large proportion of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the weight comes back at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"People buying such treatments need to be cognizant of the risk of fast weight regain when the treatment ends," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain implies a return to original mass in about 18 months.
Analyzing Approaches
The analysis, which looked at 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the results of GLP-1 agonists with other pills.
The team emphasize that individuals who lose weight through diet and exercise usually have a more gradual creep back—perhaps 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
Explaining the Quick Rebound
Nutrition scientists propose the mode of action of the drugs accounts for the heightened regain.
These medications mimic a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which helps regulate hunger.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 concentrations far above than the body's typical production might result in the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and could lessen sensitivity to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Discontinuation of this medication results in appetite is unsuppressed, making overeating much more probable."
An Ongoing Disease?
Health authorities suggest the injections for individuals with obesity-related health risks, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals say that, given the significant potential of relapse, the therapy should be considered ongoing.
This view is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who state that the findings "underscore the persistent character of excess weight," comparing it to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
User Experiences
People who have stopped the jabs describe a sudden resurgence of appetite.
"It was like something activating and you become extremely hungry," said a patient.
The struggle is worsened if users have not adopted permanent lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Widespread Interest
Recent estimates suggest that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with demand continuing to grow.
- Use is greater among women than males.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Finally, clinicians caution that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent solution and maintained weight loss likely depends on combined lifestyle support.
