Users Coming Off Anti-Obesity Injections Gain Back Pounds at a Quadrupled Rate Than Dieters

A recent study suggests that individuals who come off new weight-loss injections like semaglutide or tirzepatide tend to recover shed pounds much more quickly than those who stop traditional diet and exercise plans.

Findings released in a major medical journal shows that while overweight individuals can lose about a fifth of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the weight returns at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.

"People buying these drugs need to be informed of the potential of quick weight regain when the medication is stopped," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.

Such speed of recovery suggests a return to pre-treatment mass in about one and a half years.

Analyzing Therapies

The study, which looked at dozens of studies involving thousands of participants, compared the outcomes of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.

Researchers emphasize that people who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone typically experience a more gradual weight regain—around 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.

Understanding the Rapid Rebound

Experts believe the mode of action of the drugs explains the amplified rebound.

These medications copy a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls appetite.

"Artificially providing the hormone levels far above than normal might result in the system to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and could diminish sensitivity to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.

"Stopping of this hormone supplement leads to appetite is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating much more probable."

A Chronic Disease?

Medical guidelines recommend the jabs for people with obesity-related health risks, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.

Professionals say that, considering the significant potential of relapse, the treatment is often ongoing.

This opinion is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the results "highlight the chronic nature of excess weight," akin to managing conditions like high blood pressure.

User Accounts

People who have come off the jabs explain a sudden resurgence of cravings.

"It was like something activating and I was suddenly starving," described a patient.

This difficulty is exacerbated if patients have not established permanent lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.

Significant Use

Figures suggest that millions of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with demand continuing to grow.

• Use is more common among women than men.
• The middle-aged demographic shows the highest level of interest.
• Many access the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.

Ultimately, experts emphasize that while the jabs are effective tools for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent cure and long-term success relies on integrated lifestyle changes.