Fresh analysis suggests that patients who stop using new weight-loss injections like semaglutide or tirzepatide may regain lost weight far faster than those who stop traditional lifestyle regimens.
Research printed in a major health publication shows that while overweight people can lose about a fifth of their body weight while using the jabs, the mass comes back at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Individuals purchasing such treatments must be informed of the danger of rapid weight regain when the medication is stopped," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain implies a return to starting weight within about a year and a half.
Comparing Approaches
The research, which looked at 37 of studies involving thousands of patients, compared the effects of these new drugs with other pills.
Researchers emphasize that individuals who lose weight through dieting usually experience a less rapid weight regain—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Understanding the Fast Rebound
Experts suggest the mode of action of the drugs explains the amplified weight return.
These medications copy a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone concentrations several times higher than normal may cause the body to produce less of its own natural hormone, and may also reduce sensitivity to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Withdrawal of this GLP-1 'fix' means hunger is unsuppressed, making overeating far more likely."
A Chronic Condition?
The NHS recommend the jabs for people with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Professionals say that, considering the high risk of relapse, the therapy might need to be long-term.
This view is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the results "highlight the long-term character of obesity," comparing it to managing diseases like diabetes.
User Testimonies
Individuals who have discontinued the jabs explain a sudden return of appetite.
"It was like a switch that goes on and you're instantly ravenous," recalled an individual.
This difficulty is worsened if patients have not established lasting lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Growing Adoption
Recent estimates indicate that a significant number of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with demand remaining high.
- Adoption is higher among females compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Finally, researchers caution that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful tools for weight loss, they are not a magic cure and long-term success likely depends on combined behavioural changes.
