Fresh analysis suggests that people who stop using new weight-loss injections like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on shed pounds much more quickly than those who halt conventional diet and exercise regimens.
Research printed in a major health publication points out that while obese people frequently drop a large proportion of their body weight while on the medication, the mass comes back at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"Users buying such treatments need to be informed of the risk of fast rebound weight gain when the treatment is stopped," stated lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery suggests a reversion to original mass in about 18 months.
Analyzing Therapies
The study, which reviewed dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the results of the injectable medications with older methods.
The team emphasize that individuals who shed pounds through diet and exercise typically see a less rapid creep back—approximately 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
Explaining the Quick Rebound
Doctors believe the mode of action of the drugs accounts for the heightened rebound.
The injections mimic a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 levels several times higher than the body's typical production may cause the body to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and could diminish sensitivity to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Withdrawal of this GLP-1 'fix' leads to hunger is unsuppressed, making overeating a significant risk."
An Ongoing Condition?
The NHS advise the jabs for individuals with weight-linked health risks, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals say that, considering the significant potential of weight regain, the treatment might need to be long-term.
This view is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the results "emphasize the long-term character of excess weight," akin to managing diseases like hypertension.
Patient Accounts
People who have come off the medication explain a sudden return of appetite.
"It was like something that goes on and you become ravenous," described a patient.
This difficulty is worsened if patients have not adopted lasting lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Growing Use
Survey data suggest that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with demand continuing to grow.
- Adoption is higher among females compared to men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion access the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
In conclusion, researchers stress that while these medications are effective tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent cure and long-term success likely depends on ongoing behavioural changes.
