Fresh analysis indicates that individuals who come off popular weight-loss injections like semaglutide or tirzepatide tend to recover lost weight much more quickly than those who halt conventional lifestyle programs.
Research printed in a major medical journal points out that while obese individuals can lose substantial amounts of their total mass while using the jabs, the mass is regained at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"People buying such medications should be informed of the potential of rapid rebound weight gain when the treatment ends," stated lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain implies a reversion to original weight in about a year and a half.
Analyzing Therapies
The research, which reviewed 37 of trials involving thousands of patients, compared the results of the injectable medications with other pills.
Scientists note that individuals who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone usually experience a more gradual weight regain—around 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
The Reason for the Fast Regain
Experts suggest the mechanism of the injections accounts for the amplified regain.
These medications imitate a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing the hormone levels far above than normal might result in the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and could reduce sensitivity to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Stopping of this medication results in appetite is unsuppressed, making binge eating far more likely."
A Chronic Disease?
Medical guidelines recommend the injections for individuals with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Many experts argue that, due to the significant potential of weight regain, the treatment is often ongoing.
This view is echoed by drug manufacturers, who state that the results "emphasize the long-term character of excess weight," akin to managing diseases like diabetes.
User Accounts
People who have stopped the jabs explain a powerful return of cravings.
"It felt as if a trigger activating and you become ravenous," described one woman.
This challenge is exacerbated if users have not adopted lasting lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Widespread Interest
Recent estimates indicate that millions of people in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with interest being substantial.
- Use is more common among females than men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
In conclusion, researchers caution that while the jabs are effective agents for weight loss, they are not a magic fix and maintained weight loss hinges on combined behavioural changes.
