A recent study suggests that patients who come off new weight-loss injections like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on lost weight at a significantly accelerated pace than those who halt conventional diet and exercise regimens.
Research printed in a leading health publication points out that while overweight individuals often shed about a fifth of their body weight while using the jabs, the weight comes back at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"People using these drugs need to be aware of the potential of quick rebound weight gain when the treatment is stopped," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain suggests a reversion to pre-treatment mass in about one and a half years.
Comparing Treatments
The study, which looked at dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the effects of these new drugs with other pills.
Scientists point out that individuals who lose weight through dieting usually see a less rapid creep back—approximately 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
Explaining the Quick Rebound
Doctors believe the way of the jabs explains the accelerated weight return.
These medications copy a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 concentrations far above than normal might result in the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and could reduce sensitivity to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Withdrawal of this medication means hunger is unsuppressed, making overeating much more probable."
An Ongoing Issue?
The NHS suggest the jabs for people with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals argue that, considering the significant potential of relapse, the therapy should be considered life-long.
This perspective is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the results "underscore the long-term character of obesity," comparing it to managing conditions like hypertension.
Patient Experiences
Users who have come off the jabs report a intense return of hunger.
"I experienced a switch activating and you become ravenous," described one woman.
This challenge is compounded if patients have not adopted permanent dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Significant Adoption
Recent estimates show that a significant number of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with demand continuing to grow.
- Use is more common among women compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Ultimately, clinicians emphasize that while the jabs are potent agents for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent fix and long-term success relies on combined lifestyle management.
