New research reveals that people who come off popular weight-loss injections like semaglutide or tirzepatide may regain reduced body mass much more quickly than those who stop conventional lifestyle programs.
Research printed in a prominent health publication points out that while overweight people can lose about a fifth of their body weight while on the medication, the weight comes back at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Users using these treatments should be informed of the risk of quick rebound weight gain when the treatment concludes," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery implies a return to pre-treatment mass in about one and a half years.
Comparing Therapies
The research, which looked at dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the effects of the injectable medications with older methods.
The team note that people who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone usually have a more gradual weight regain—around 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
The Reason for the Rapid Regain
Doctors believe the way of the jabs explains the heightened weight return.
The injections copy a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates hunger.
"Long-term administration of the hormone levels several times higher than the body's typical production could lead to the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and could diminish responsiveness to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Discontinuation of this GLP-1 'fix' results in hunger is no longer kept in check, making binge eating much more probable."
A Lifelong Disease?
The NHS recommend the injections for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals argue that, given the likelihood of relapse, the treatment is often long-term.
This view is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who note that the findings "emphasize the persistent character of obesity," similar to managing diseases like diabetes.
User Experiences
Individuals who have discontinued the jabs report a powerful return of hunger.
"I experienced a trigger that goes on and I was suddenly extremely hungry," described one woman.
This difficulty is exacerbated if patients have not adopted lasting lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Growing Use
Figures show that a significant number of people in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with demand remaining high.
- Adoption is greater among women than males.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Finally, researchers stress that while these medications are potent tools for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone cure and maintained weight loss relies on integrated behavioural support.
