A recent study suggests that patients who discontinue popular weight-loss injections like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on shed pounds at a significantly accelerated pace than those who end traditional diet and exercise plans.
Findings released in a prominent health publication demonstrates that while overweight people often shed about a fifth of their total mass while using the jabs, the weight is regained at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Individuals buying such drugs need to be cognizant of the danger of fast weight regain when the medication ends," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery means a reversion to original mass in about one and a half years.
Comparing Treatments
The study, which examined 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the effects of these new drugs with older methods.
Scientists emphasize that individuals who shed pounds through dieting usually have a less rapid weight regain—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Understanding the Fast Regain
Nutrition scientists believe the mode of action of the injections is key to understanding the accelerated regain.
These medications mimic a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which helps regulate hunger.
"Long-term administration of the hormone concentrations far above than the body's typical production might result in the body to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and could diminish responsiveness to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement means hunger is uncontrolled, making binge eating much more probable."
A Chronic Issue?
Health authorities suggest the jabs for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts argue that, given the significant potential of relapse, the treatment should be considered long-term.
This opinion is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the findings "underscore the persistent character of obesity," akin to managing conditions like hypertension.
Patient Testimonies
Users who have discontinued the medication report a powerful return of hunger.
"I experienced a trigger activating and you become ravenous," recalled one woman.
This challenge is compounded if users have not developed sustainable lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Significant Interest
Figures suggest that millions of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with demand continuing to grow.
- Adoption is higher among females compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- Many access the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Ultimately, researchers emphasize that while the jabs are potent tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent solution and maintained weight loss likely depends on ongoing lifestyle support.
