New research reveals that individuals who discontinue new weight-loss injections like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on reduced body mass at a significantly accelerated pace than those who halt conventional diet and exercise plans.
Research printed in a leading medical journal demonstrates that while overweight individuals can lose a large proportion of their body weight while using the jabs, the mass is regained at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Individuals purchasing such drugs should be informed of the danger of rapid weight regain when the treatment ends," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain implies a return to pre-treatment weight in about a year and a half.
Weighing Treatments
The research, which looked at dozens of trials involving thousands of participants, compared the results of the injectable medications with older methods.
The team note that individuals who shed pounds through diet and exercise generally see a slower weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
The Reason for the Rapid Regain
Nutrition scientists propose the mechanism of the jabs is key to understanding the heightened weight return.
These medications imitate a natural hormone called GLP-1, which controls hunger.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 levels several times higher than normal may cause the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and could lessen responsiveness to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement means appetite is no longer kept in check, making binge eating much more probable."
A Chronic Condition?
The NHS advise the jabs for individuals with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals contend that, given the significant potential of weight regain, the therapy should be considered long-term.
This opinion is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the findings "underscore the persistent nature of obesity," comparing it to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
User Experiences
People who have come off the jabs report a sudden return of appetite.
"I experienced a trigger activating and you become ravenous," described one woman.
The struggle is compounded if individuals have not established lasting lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Growing Adoption
Survey data show that a significant number of people in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with interest being substantial.
- Adoption is greater among females compared to males.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, researchers emphasize that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful agents for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone cure and maintained weight loss hinges on integrated behavioural management.
