Patients Coming Off Anti-Obesity Medications Put On Pounds at a Quadrupled Rate Compared to Dieters
New research suggests that people who come off popular slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide tend to recover shed pounds far faster than those who end traditional lifestyle regimens.
Findings released in a prominent health publication demonstrates that while overweight people can lose a large proportion of their body weight while using the jabs, the mass comes back at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Individuals purchasing these treatments should be cognizant of the risk of rapid rebound weight gain when the medication ends," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery implies a return to original mass in about a year and a half.
Comparing Treatments
The study, which reviewed dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the effects of these new drugs with older methods.
Scientists point out that people who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone usually have a less rapid weight regain—approximately 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
The Reason for the Fast Regain
Doctors suggest the mechanism of the injections is key to understanding the heightened regain.
These medications imitate a natural hormone called GLP-1, which controls hunger.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone concentrations several times higher than normal may cause the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and could lessen sensitivity to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement results in hunger is unsuppressed, making excessive eating a significant risk."
A Chronic Disease?
The NHS recommend the injections for individuals with obesity-related health risks, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals say that, due to the likelihood of weight regain, the therapy should be considered life-long.
This opinion is echoed by drug manufacturers, who note that the results "emphasize the persistent nature of excess weight," akin to managing conditions like diabetes.
User Testimonies
Users who have stopped the medication explain a powerful resurgence of cravings.
"It felt as if something flipping and you become extremely hungry," said one woman.
This difficulty is compounded if individuals have not established permanent lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Significant Interest
Recent estimates show that millions of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with demand remaining high.
- Adoption is higher among women than men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion access the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, experts emphasize that while the jabs are effective tools for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent cure and maintained weight loss hinges on integrated behavioural support.
