A recent study indicates 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 halt traditional diet and exercise plans.
Findings released in a prominent health publication shows that while overweight individuals frequently drop about a fifth of their total mass while on the medication, the mass returns at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"Individuals buying such medications must be informed of the risk of fast rebound weight gain when the medication is stopped," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery implies a return to original mass within about a year and a half.
Comparing Treatments
The analysis, which examined dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the outcomes of the injectable medications with older methods.
The team note that individuals who lose weight through dieting generally experience a more gradual weight regain—around 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
The Reason for the Fast Rebound
Nutrition scientists believe the mode of action of the jabs explains the amplified rebound.
These medications imitate a natural hormone called GLP-1, which controls hunger.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 concentrations far above than the body's typical production might result in the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and may also lessen sensitivity to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement results in appetite is uncontrolled, making overeating far more likely."
An Ongoing Disease?
Medical guidelines suggest the jabs for people with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts argue that, considering the significant potential of relapse, the therapy is often ongoing.
This view is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the findings "highlight the persistent nature of excess weight," comparing it to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
User Accounts
Individuals who have discontinued the medication report a sudden return of cravings.
"It was like a trigger that goes on and I was suddenly starving," said an individual.
This difficulty is compounded if users have not established lasting lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Growing Use
Survey data show that millions of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with interest being substantial.
- Adoption is higher among females than males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
In conclusion, researchers stress that while the jabs are powerful agents for weight loss, they are not a magic solution and long-term success likely depends on ongoing behavioural management.
