A recent study indicates that people who stop using blockbuster weight-loss injections like semaglutide or tirzepatide tend to recover shed pounds at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop conventional diet and exercise programs.
Research printed in a leading health publication demonstrates that while overweight individuals often shed a large proportion of their body weight while using the jabs, the weight comes back at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"People buying such drugs must be aware of the risk of quick weight regain when the treatment is stopped," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain means a reversion to original mass within about a year and a half.
Comparing Treatments
The study, which reviewed 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the outcomes of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
Scientists note that people who lose weight through dieting generally have a slower weight regain—approximately 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
Understanding the Quick Rebound
Nutrition scientists propose the way of the drugs accounts for the heightened weight return.
The injections imitate a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 levels several times higher than normal may cause the body to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and may also diminish responsiveness to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement leads to appetite is no longer kept in check, making overeating far more likely."
An Ongoing Condition?
Medical guidelines recommend the jabs for individuals with obesity-related health risks, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals argue that, given the likelihood of relapse, the treatment should be considered long-term.
This opinion is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the results "highlight the persistent character of obesity," akin to managing diseases like hypertension.
Patient Experiences
Individuals who have discontinued the jabs report a intense resurgence of cravings.
"It was like something activating and I was suddenly ravenous," said a patient.
This difficulty is worsened if users have not developed permanent dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Significant Interest
Recent estimates suggest that a significant number of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with demand remaining high.
- Use is more common among women compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
In conclusion, researchers emphasize that while the jabs are potent agents for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent cure and long-term success relies on integrated behavioural changes.
