A recent study suggests that individuals who come off popular weight-loss injections like semaglutide or tirzepatide may regain shed pounds far faster than those who end traditional lifestyle programs.
Findings released in a major health publication shows that while overweight people often shed a large proportion 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 such drugs need to be cognizant of the risk of quick weight regain when the therapy ends," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery means a reversion to starting mass in about 18 months.
Comparing Treatments
The study, which examined 37 of trials involving thousands of patients, contrasted the outcomes of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
Scientists point out that people who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone usually have a more gradual creep back—around 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Explaining the Fast Rebound
Experts believe the way of the injections is key to understanding the heightened rebound.
The injections mimic a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone levels several times higher than the body's typical production may cause the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and may also diminish sensitivity to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement results in appetite is no longer kept in check, making overeating much more probable."
A Chronic Condition?
Medical guidelines recommend the injections for individuals with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts contend that, given the significant potential of relapse, the therapy is often long-term.
This perspective is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the results "emphasize the chronic nature of obesity," similar to managing conditions like hypertension.
User Experiences
People who have discontinued the medication report a intense resurgence of appetite.
"It felt as if something activating and you're instantly ravenous," described an individual.
This difficulty is worsened if individuals have not established permanent lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Widespread Adoption
Figures indicate that millions of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with demand continuing to grow.
- Use is higher among women compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion access the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, experts stress that while these medications are effective agents for shedding pounds, they are not a magic solution and lasting health benefits likely depends on combined lifestyle support.
