New research indicates that patients who stop using new weight-loss injections like semaglutide or tirzepatide may regain lost weight much more quickly than those who end conventional lifestyle regimens.
Published data in a prominent health publication demonstrates that while overweight individuals frequently drop substantial amounts of their body weight while using the jabs, the weight is regained at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Users purchasing these treatments need to be cognizant of the risk of rapid weight regain when the therapy is stopped," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain suggests a return to pre-treatment weight within about one and a half years.
Analyzing Therapies
The research, which reviewed dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the results of GLP-1 agonists with conventional dieting.
The team note that people who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone typically see a slower weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Understanding the Quick Regain
Experts propose the way of the jabs is key to understanding the heightened regain.
GLP-1 drugs copy a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate hunger.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 levels several times higher than normal might result in the body to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and could reduce sensitivity to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement results in hunger is uncontrolled, making excessive eating much more probable."
An Ongoing Condition?
The NHS recommend the jabs for people with weight-linked health risks, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
Professionals say that, given the likelihood of weight regain, the treatment might need to be ongoing.
This opinion is echoed by drug manufacturers, who state that the results "underscore the chronic nature of obesity," akin to managing diseases like hypertension.
Patient Accounts
People who have stopped the jabs report a intense return of hunger.
"I experienced something flipping and I was suddenly ravenous," described a patient.
This challenge is compounded if patients have not developed sustainable dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Significant Adoption
Figures indicate that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with desire remaining high.
- Adoption is greater among females compared to men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many access the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, researchers stress that while GLP-1 drugs are potent agents for weight loss, they are not a magic cure and long-term success relies on integrated lifestyle changes.
