Fresh analysis suggests that people who stop using popular weight-loss injections like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on shed pounds far faster than those who stop conventional lifestyle plans.
Findings released in a major medical journal shows that while overweight individuals often shed about a fifth of their body weight while on the medication, the mass returns at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Individuals buying these treatments must be informed of the risk of quick rebound weight gain when the treatment ends," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery suggests a reversion to pre-treatment weight within about a year and a half.
Weighing Approaches
The analysis, which reviewed 37 of studies involving thousands of participants, compared the effects of these new drugs with other pills.
The team note that individuals who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone typically have a slower creep back—approximately 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Explaining the Quick Regain
Doctors believe the way of the jabs explains the amplified regain.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls appetite.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone concentrations far above than the body's typical production might result in the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and may also diminish sensitivity to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Withdrawal of this GLP-1 'fix' leads to appetite is uncontrolled, making binge eating a significant risk."
A Chronic Condition?
The NHS recommend the jabs for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals contend that, considering the likelihood of relapse, the treatment is often life-long.
This view is echoed by drug manufacturers, who say that the findings "highlight the persistent character of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like hypertension.
Patient Experiences
Individuals who have stopped the medication describe a powerful return of hunger.
"It felt as if something flipping and you're instantly ravenous," described an individual.
This challenge is worsened if individuals have not established lasting dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Significant Use
Survey data show that millions of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with demand being substantial.
- Adoption is higher among females than men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Finally, researchers caution that while these medications are effective agents for weight loss, they are not a standalone fix and lasting health benefits hinges on integrated lifestyle changes.
