A recent study reveals that individuals who stop using blockbuster weight-loss injections like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on shed pounds much more quickly than those who end traditional lifestyle plans.
Research printed in a major medical journal demonstrates that while overweight people can lose substantial amounts of their body weight while on the medication, the mass returns at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Users purchasing such drugs need to be aware of the potential of rapid weight regain when the therapy ends," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain means a return to starting mass within about one and a half years.
Comparing Approaches
The research, which examined 37 of studies involving thousands of patients, compared the results of GLP-1 agonists with conventional dieting.
Scientists emphasize that people who lose weight through dieting typically experience a more gradual creep back—approximately 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
Understanding the Quick Regain
Doctors believe the mechanism of the drugs accounts for the heightened regain.
These medications imitate a natural hormone called GLP-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone levels far above than normal may cause the system to produce less of its own natural hormone, and may also reduce responsiveness to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement leads to appetite is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating far more likely."
A Lifelong Disease?
Health authorities advise the jabs for people with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts contend that, considering the significant potential of weight regain, the therapy is often long-term.
This perspective is echoed by drug manufacturers, who state that the findings "highlight the chronic nature of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like diabetes.
User Testimonies
Individuals who have discontinued the jabs explain a intense resurgence of cravings.
"It was like something that goes on and you become starving," described one woman.
This difficulty is exacerbated if users have not developed lasting dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Significant Use
Figures indicate that millions of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with demand continuing to grow.
- Adoption is higher among females compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many access the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Finally, researchers stress that while the jabs are effective tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent solution and maintained weight loss hinges on combined lifestyle changes.
