Fresh analysis suggests that patients who stop using blockbuster weight-loss injections like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on lost weight much more quickly than those who stop traditional lifestyle regimens.
Research printed in a prominent health publication shows that while obese people can lose substantial amounts of their total mass while on the medication, the weight comes back at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Individuals buying these medications should be aware of the danger of fast weight regain when the treatment is stopped," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain means a return to starting mass within about 18 months.
Analyzing Treatments
The research, which examined 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the effects of the injectable medications with other pills.
The team point out that individuals who shed pounds through dieting typically have a more gradual creep back—around 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
The Reason for the Quick Regain
Doctors suggest the mechanism of the drugs is key to understanding the amplified regain.
The injections copy a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates appetite.
"Long-term administration of the hormone levels several times higher than normal may cause the system to produce less of its own natural hormone, and may also reduce responsiveness to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' means appetite is uncontrolled, making overeating far more likely."
A Lifelong Disease?
The NHS suggest the injections for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
Professionals argue that, considering the significant potential of relapse, the treatment should be considered ongoing.
This opinion is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the findings "emphasize the long-term character of obesity," comparing it to managing conditions like hypertension.
User Accounts
Individuals who have come off the medication report a intense resurgence of appetite.
"I experienced a switch flipping and you become ravenous," described an individual.
This difficulty is exacerbated if users have not adopted lasting lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Widespread Use
Survey data indicate that millions of adults in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with interest being substantial.
- Use is more common among females compared to men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, experts caution that while these medications are potent agents for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent solution and long-term success likely depends on combined behavioural support.
