A recent study suggests that individuals who come off popular weight-loss injections like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on shed pounds much more quickly than those who end traditional diet and exercise programs.
Findings released in a prominent medical journal demonstrates that while obese people frequently drop a large proportion of their body weight while using the jabs, the mass comes back at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Individuals purchasing these treatments need to be aware of the potential of rapid weight regain when the medication ends," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain means a reversion to pre-treatment weight within about a year and a half.
Analyzing Therapies
The research, which examined 37 of trials involving thousands of participants, contrasted the outcomes of GLP-1 agonists with older methods.
The team emphasize that people who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone usually experience a more gradual weight regain—approximately 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
Explaining the Fast Regain
Nutrition scientists propose the mode of action of the jabs is key to understanding the amplified regain.
The injections mimic a natural hormone called GLP-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 levels far above than normal may cause the system to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and could reduce sensitivity to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement results in hunger is uncontrolled, making excessive eating far more likely."
An Ongoing Disease?
Medical guidelines recommend the jabs for people with obesity-related health risks, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
Professionals say that, considering the high risk of relapse, the therapy might need to be life-long.
This opinion is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the findings "underscore the persistent character of obesity," similar to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Experiences
Individuals who have come off the jabs describe a sudden return of cravings.
"It was like something that goes on and I was suddenly extremely hungry," said a patient.
The struggle is compounded if individuals have not established lasting dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Widespread Use
Figures indicate that millions of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with desire being substantial.
- Use is greater among females compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, experts emphasize that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful tools for shedding pounds, they are not a magic fix and long-term success hinges on integrated behavioural changes.
