A recent study reveals that patients who stop using popular weight-loss injections like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on shed pounds at a significantly accelerated pace than those who end traditional diet and exercise programs.
Findings released in a major health publication shows that while overweight individuals can lose substantial amounts of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the mass comes back at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Users using these drugs should be cognizant of the potential of quick weight regain when the therapy concludes," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery means a return to pre-treatment weight within about a year and a half.
Comparing Approaches
The research, which examined dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the results of these new drugs with older methods.
Researchers note that people who shed pounds through dieting generally experience a slower creep back—approximately 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
Explaining the Rapid Regain
Experts suggest the mode of action of the injections is key to understanding the heightened regain.
GLP-1 drugs copy a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates hunger.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production may cause the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and may also diminish sensitivity to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' results in appetite is uncontrolled, making binge eating far more likely."
An Ongoing Issue?
Medical guidelines recommend the jabs for people with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
Many experts contend that, given the significant potential of relapse, the therapy should be considered ongoing.
This opinion is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who state that the findings "emphasize the long-term character of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like diabetes.
Patient Testimonies
Individuals who have stopped the medication explain a sudden resurgence of appetite.
"It was like a switch activating and you're instantly extremely hungry," described one woman.
This challenge is compounded if patients have not established permanent dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Growing Use
Survey data indicate that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with interest being substantial.
- Use is greater among females compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, clinicians caution that while GLP-1 drugs are effective agents for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent cure and maintained weight loss relies on ongoing lifestyle support.
