A recent study indicates that people who come off blockbuster weight-loss injections like semaglutide or tirzepatide tend to recover lost weight much more quickly than those who halt traditional lifestyle plans.
Published data in a prominent health publication shows that while obese people can lose substantial amounts of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the mass is regained at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Individuals purchasing such treatments must be aware of the potential of quick weight regain when the therapy is stopped," stated researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery suggests a return to starting weight in about a year and a half.
Comparing Treatments
The research, which examined 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the effects of the injectable medications with older methods.
Researchers emphasize that people who shed pounds through diet and exercise generally see a less rapid creep back—around 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
Explaining the Rapid Rebound
Doctors believe the mode of action of the injections explains the accelerated rebound.
These medications mimic a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates hunger.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 levels far above than normal could lead to the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and could reduce responsiveness to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement means hunger is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating a significant risk."
A Chronic Disease?
Medical guidelines recommend the injections for people with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts argue that, given the likelihood of weight regain, the treatment is often ongoing.
This view is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the results "underscore the chronic nature of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like hypertension.
User Accounts
Individuals who have stopped the jabs explain a intense return of hunger.
"It felt as if a trigger flipping and you're instantly starving," said one woman.
The struggle is compounded if patients have not established lasting dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Growing Use
Figures show that a significant number of people in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with interest being substantial.
- Use is greater among women compared to men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Finally, researchers emphasize that while the jabs are effective tools for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent cure and long-term success relies on ongoing lifestyle management.
