A recent study indicates that patients who discontinue new weight-loss injections like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on lost weight much more quickly than those who stop traditional lifestyle plans.
Research printed in a leading health publication shows that while overweight people often shed about a fifth of their total mass while using the jabs, the mass returns at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Individuals purchasing such drugs should be aware of the risk of rapid rebound weight gain when the medication ends," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery suggests a reversion to starting weight within about 18 months.
Weighing Approaches
The study, which reviewed dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the results of these new drugs with older methods.
Scientists note that individuals who lose weight through dieting generally have a more gradual creep back—approximately 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Explaining the Quick Rebound
Nutrition scientists believe the mechanism of the jabs explains the amplified regain.
These medications copy a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 concentrations far above than normal could lead to the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and could reduce sensitivity to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Withdrawal of this medication results in hunger is uncontrolled, making overeating far more likely."
An Ongoing Issue?
Medical guidelines suggest the injections for people with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians say that, given the high risk of weight regain, the therapy might need to be life-long.
This perspective is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the findings "emphasize the chronic character of excess weight," comparing it to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Testimonies
Users who have discontinued the medication describe a sudden return of appetite.
"It felt as if a trigger activating and you're instantly ravenous," recalled an individual.
This challenge is worsened if patients have not adopted permanent lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Growing Adoption
Recent estimates indicate that a significant number of adults in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with demand remaining high.
- Use is higher among women than men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
In conclusion, researchers caution that while the jabs are powerful tools for weight loss, they are not a magic solution and lasting health benefits relies on ongoing lifestyle support.
