New research suggests that people who discontinue popular weight-loss injections like semaglutide or tirzepatide tend to recover shed pounds much more quickly than those who stop traditional diet and exercise regimens.
Research printed in a prominent health publication points out that while overweight individuals often shed a large proportion of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the weight comes back at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"Users purchasing these medications need to be aware of the danger of rapid weight regain when the medication is stopped," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery implies a return to starting weight in about one and a half years.
Weighing Approaches
The research, which examined dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the effects of these new drugs with older methods.
The team emphasize that people who lose weight through diet and exercise typically see a less rapid creep back—perhaps 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
Explaining the Quick Regain
Doctors believe the mode of action of the jabs accounts for the heightened weight return.
The injections mimic a natural hormone called GLP-1, which moderates appetite.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 concentrations far above than the body's typical production might result in the body to produce less of its own natural hormone, and could diminish responsiveness to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' means hunger is unsuppressed, making excessive eating far more likely."
An Ongoing Condition?
Health authorities advise the injections for people with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts contend that, given the high risk of relapse, the treatment might need to be long-term.
This perspective is supported by drug manufacturers, who say that the findings "highlight the chronic nature of excess weight," similar to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
User Testimonies
Individuals who have stopped the medication report a intense resurgence of cravings.
"It was like something flipping and I was suddenly ravenous," described one woman.
The struggle is exacerbated if patients have not established permanent lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Widespread Use
Survey data indicate that a significant number of people in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with demand continuing to grow.
- Adoption is higher among females compared to males.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest usage rates.
- Many obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
In conclusion, researchers emphasize that while the jabs are effective agents for shedding pounds, they are not a magic fix and long-term success likely depends on ongoing lifestyle changes.
