A recent study suggests that people who stop using new weight-loss injections like semaglutide or tirzepatide tend to recover lost weight much more quickly than those who end conventional diet and exercise regimens.
Published data in a prominent medical journal shows that while obese individuals frequently drop about a fifth of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the mass returns at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"People buying these treatments need to be informed of the potential of quick rebound weight gain when the treatment ends," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain means a return to pre-treatment mass within about one and a half years.
Comparing Approaches
The analysis, which examined dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the effects of GLP-1 agonists with conventional dieting.
The team emphasize that people who shed pounds through dieting usually experience a more gradual creep back—perhaps 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
Explaining the Quick Regain
Experts believe the mechanism of the jabs is key to understanding the heightened weight return.
The injections mimic a natural hormone called GLP-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing the hormone levels far above than normal might result in the body to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and may also lessen sensitivity to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Withdrawal of this GLP-1 'fix' results in hunger is no longer kept in check, making overeating much more probable."
A Lifelong Condition?
Health authorities suggest the jabs for individuals with obesity-related health risks, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts say that, considering the likelihood of relapse, the treatment is often life-long.
This view is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the results "emphasize the persistent character of obesity," akin to managing conditions like hypertension.
User Testimonies
Users who have discontinued the medication explain a powerful return of cravings.
"It felt as if something that goes on and you're instantly ravenous," recalled an individual.
This challenge is compounded if patients have not established sustainable lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Significant Use
Survey data indicate that millions of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with interest continuing to grow.
- Use is higher among females compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest level of interest.
- Many access the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, experts emphasize that while GLP-1 drugs are effective tools for weight loss, they are not a standalone solution and maintained weight loss likely depends on ongoing behavioural support.
