New research reveals that individuals who stop using blockbuster weight-loss injections like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on shed pounds much more quickly than those who halt conventional diet and exercise programs.
Published data in a prominent health publication shows that while overweight people often shed about a fifth of their total mass while on the medication, the mass is regained at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Individuals using such drugs should be informed of the potential of quick rebound weight gain when the medication ends," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain suggests a return to original weight in about 18 months.
Analyzing Treatments
The analysis, which looked at 37 of studies involving thousands of participants, contrasted the effects of GLP-1 agonists with older methods.
The team emphasize that individuals who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone generally have a more gradual creep back—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
The Reason for the Rapid Rebound
Doctors believe the mode of action of the injections explains the heightened regain.
GLP-1 drugs copy a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which controls hunger.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone levels far above than normal may cause the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and may also reduce responsiveness to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Stopping of this medication leads to appetite is unsuppressed, making excessive eating much more probable."
A Lifelong Disease?
Health authorities suggest the injections for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians argue that, given the high risk of relapse, the treatment might need to be long-term.
This view is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the findings "underscore the long-term character of excess weight," similar to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
Patient Testimonies
Individuals who have stopped the jabs explain a powerful return of hunger.
"I experienced a switch that goes on and you become extremely hungry," said one woman.
The struggle is exacerbated if patients have not established lasting lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Growing Interest
Survey data suggest that a significant number of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with desire being substantial.
- Use is higher among women than men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Ultimately, researchers caution that while GLP-1 drugs are effective agents for weight loss, they are not a standalone solution and maintained weight loss likely depends on integrated lifestyle support.
