Users Stopping Slimming Injections Put On Pounds at a Quadrupled Rate Compared to People Using Diet and Exercise

New research indicates that individuals who come off new weight-loss injections like semaglutide or tirzepatide may regain lost weight much more quickly than those who stop conventional lifestyle programs.

Research printed in a prominent health publication demonstrates that while obese people can lose about a fifth of their total mass while on the medication, the mass is regained at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.

"Users using these drugs should be informed of the danger of fast rebound weight gain when the treatment ends," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.

Such speed of regain suggests a reversion to original mass in about a year and a half.

Analyzing Approaches

The research, which reviewed dozens of studies involving thousands of participants, compared the effects of these new drugs with older methods.

Scientists point out that individuals who shed pounds through diet and exercise generally experience a less rapid creep back—perhaps 100 grams monthly—after stopping.

The Reason for the Fast Regain

Experts believe the way of the injections is key to understanding the heightened regain.

These medications mimic a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.

"Long-term administration of the hormone levels several times higher than normal may cause the body to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and could reduce responsiveness to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.

"Discontinuation of this medication leads to appetite is unsuppressed, making excessive eating far more likely."

A Chronic Issue?

Health authorities suggest the jabs for people with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.

A number of clinicians contend that, considering the likelihood of weight regain, the therapy should be considered long-term.

This view is echoed by drug manufacturers, who note that the findings "emphasize the chronic nature of excess weight," similar to managing diseases like diabetes.

Patient Accounts

People who have stopped the medication report a intense resurgence of hunger.

"I experienced a switch activating and you're instantly ravenous," recalled an individual.

This challenge is compounded if individuals have not established lasting lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.

Significant Interest

Figures indicate that a significant number of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with interest being substantial.

• Adoption is higher among females than men.
• The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest level of interest.
• A large proportion access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.

Finally, experts stress that while the jabs are powerful agents for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone cure and maintained weight loss relies on combined behavioural changes.