New research reveals that individuals who discontinue popular weight-loss injections like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on shed pounds at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop conventional diet and exercise programs.
Findings released in a leading medical journal shows that while overweight people frequently drop a large proportion of their body weight while on the medication, the mass comes back at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Users using such medications must be informed of the risk of fast weight regain when the treatment concludes," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain means a return to pre-treatment mass in about a year and a half.
Analyzing Approaches
The analysis, which looked at dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the results of GLP-1 agonists with conventional dieting.
Scientists note that individuals who lose weight through dieting generally have a more gradual weight regain—around 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
Understanding the Quick Rebound
Nutrition scientists suggest the mode of action of the drugs accounts for the accelerated regain.
GLP-1 drugs copy a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of the hormone levels far above than the body's typical production may cause the system to produce less of its own natural hormone, and could diminish responsiveness to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Discontinuation of this medication leads to appetite is no longer kept in check, making overeating much more probable."
An Ongoing Issue?
Medical guidelines suggest the injections for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
Professionals say that, due to the likelihood of weight regain, the therapy might need to be long-term.
This view is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who state that the results "highlight the chronic nature of obesity," akin to managing diseases like hypertension.
User Experiences
Users who have come off the medication describe a intense resurgence of cravings.
"It felt as if a trigger activating and you're instantly ravenous," recalled a patient.
This difficulty is exacerbated if individuals have not adopted sustainable lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Growing Adoption
Survey data show that a significant number of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with desire remaining high.
- Adoption is more common among females compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- Many obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
In conclusion, researchers emphasize that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful agents for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent fix and long-term success hinges on integrated behavioural support.
