A recent study indicates that people who stop using blockbuster weight-loss injections like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on reduced body mass much more quickly than those who end traditional diet and exercise programs.
Research printed in a leading health publication demonstrates that while obese people frequently drop a large proportion of their body weight while on the medication, the weight is regained at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"People using these medications should be cognizant of the risk of rapid weight regain when the medication is stopped," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain means a reversion to original weight in about a year and a half.
Analyzing Therapies
The research, which looked at 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the results of GLP-1 agonists with other pills.
The team note that individuals who shed pounds through dieting generally see a more gradual weight regain—approximately 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
The Reason for the Quick Regain
Doctors believe the mechanism of the jabs is key to understanding the accelerated rebound.
The injections copy a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone concentrations far above than the body's typical production could lead to the body to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also reduce responsiveness to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement means hunger is unsuppressed, making binge eating a significant risk."
A Chronic Issue?
Medical guidelines suggest the jabs for people with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians contend that, due to the likelihood of weight regain, the treatment might need to be long-term.
This view is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the findings "underscore the persistent character of excess weight," akin to managing diseases like hypertension.
Patient Testimonies
People who have come off the jabs report a powerful resurgence of hunger.
"It felt as if something flipping and you become ravenous," recalled an individual.
This challenge is worsened if users have not adopted sustainable dietary or behavioural modifications during treatment.
Growing Interest
Survey data suggest that millions of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with demand remaining high.
- Adoption is greater among women compared to men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Finally, researchers emphasize that while the jabs are powerful tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent fix and maintained weight loss likely depends on integrated behavioural changes.
