A recent study indicates that patients who discontinue new slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide may regain shed pounds far faster than those who end conventional diet and exercise regimens.
Findings released in a major medical journal demonstrates that while obese people can lose about a fifth of their total mass while on the medication, the weight comes back at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"People using these medications need to be informed of the risk of rapid rebound weight gain when the treatment is stopped," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery implies a reversion to pre-treatment weight within about one and a half years.
Analyzing Approaches
The analysis, which examined dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the results of GLP-1 agonists with older methods.
The team note that people who shed pounds through diet and exercise generally have a more gradual weight regain—around 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
The Reason for the Quick Rebound
Doctors propose the mode of action of the drugs accounts for the amplified rebound.
The injections mimic a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls hunger.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 levels several times higher than normal might result in the body to produce less of its own natural hormone, and could diminish sensitivity to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement leads to hunger is no longer kept in check, making binge eating far more likely."
A Lifelong Condition?
Medical guidelines suggest the jabs for individuals with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Professionals argue that, due to the high risk of relapse, the therapy might need to be long-term.
This perspective is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the findings "underscore the persistent nature of excess weight," comparing it to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
Patient Testimonies
Users who have come off the jabs explain a intense resurgence of cravings.
"I experienced a switch flipping and I was suddenly starving," said an individual.
This challenge is worsened if users have not established permanent lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Growing Use
Recent estimates suggest that millions of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with interest continuing to grow.
- Adoption is more common among women compared to males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- Many obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, researchers caution that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful agents for shedding pounds, they are not a magic solution and long-term success likely depends on combined behavioural support.
