New research indicates that people who stop using new weight-loss injections like semaglutide or tirzepatide may regain lost weight at a significantly accelerated pace than those who halt conventional diet and exercise plans.
Research printed in a major medical journal points out that while overweight people can lose a large proportion of their total mass while using the jabs, the weight is regained at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"People purchasing such medications must be aware of the potential of rapid rebound weight gain when the medication concludes," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain suggests a return to starting weight within about 18 months.
Weighing Treatments
The study, which looked at 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the effects of the injectable medications with older methods.
Scientists note that people who lose weight through dieting usually experience a slower weight regain—perhaps 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
Understanding the Fast Rebound
Experts suggest the mechanism of the injections accounts for the heightened rebound.
The injections imitate a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls hunger.
"Artificially providing the hormone concentrations several times higher than normal could lead to the system to produce less of its own natural hormone, and could diminish sensitivity to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement leads to hunger is unsuppressed, making binge eating much more probable."
A Chronic Issue?
Health authorities suggest the injections for people with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts argue that, due to the likelihood of relapse, the therapy might need to be life-long.
This opinion is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the results "emphasize the persistent character of obesity," comparing it to managing conditions like diabetes.
Patient Experiences
Individuals who have stopped the jabs explain a powerful resurgence of hunger.
"It felt as if a switch flipping and you become starving," described an individual.
The struggle is worsened if individuals have not developed permanent dietary or behavioural modifications during treatment.
Significant Interest
Recent estimates indicate that millions of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with interest remaining high.
- Adoption is higher among women than males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
In conclusion, experts emphasize that while the jabs are powerful agents for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent solution and maintained weight loss hinges on integrated lifestyle support.
