Individuals Coming Off Anti-Obesity Injections Gain Back Weight Far More Rapidly Compared to People Using Diet and Exercise

New research reveals that people who discontinue popular slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on shed pounds far faster than those who stop traditional lifestyle plans.

Research printed in a prominent health publication points out that while obese people can lose substantial amounts of their total mass while on the medication, the weight returns at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.

"People using these medications should be cognizant of the risk of rapid rebound weight gain when the therapy ends," stated researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.

That rate of recovery means a return to original weight within about 18 months.

Weighing Treatments

The analysis, which examined 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the outcomes of these new drugs with conventional dieting.

Researchers note that people who lose weight through dieting generally have a slower creep back—approximately 100 grams monthly—after stopping.

The Reason for the Quick Regain

Doctors believe the way of the drugs accounts for the accelerated weight return.

These medications imitate a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates hunger.

"Long-term administration of the hormone levels far above than the body's typical production might result in the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and could reduce responsiveness to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.

"Discontinuation of this medication means hunger is unsuppressed, making binge eating far more likely."

A Lifelong Issue?

Health authorities advise the jabs for individuals with weight-linked health risks, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.

A number of clinicians argue that, considering the significant potential of relapse, the therapy might need to be ongoing.

This perspective is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the findings "highlight the persistent nature of obesity," akin to managing diseases like high blood pressure.

User Accounts

People who have stopped the medication report a sudden resurgence of appetite.

"I experienced a switch activating and you become ravenous," recalled a patient.

The struggle is exacerbated if patients have not adopted lasting lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.

Growing Adoption

Figures indicate that millions of people in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with desire continuing to grow.

• Use is higher among women compared to men.
• The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest usage rates.
• Many obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.

Ultimately, experts emphasize that while these medications are effective tools for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent fix and long-term success likely depends on integrated lifestyle support.