A recent study indicates that patients who stop using popular slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide may regain lost weight far faster than those who end conventional diet and exercise plans.
Published data in a leading medical journal points out that while overweight individuals can lose a large proportion of their total mass while on the medication, the weight returns at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Users using such medications should be informed of the danger of quick weight regain when the medication concludes," stated lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery suggests a reversion to starting mass within about one and a half years.
Weighing Approaches
The study, which looked at 37 of trials involving thousands of participants, compared the results of GLP-1 agonists with other pills.
Scientists emphasize that individuals who lose weight through dieting usually see a less rapid weight regain—around 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
The Reason for the Rapid Rebound
Experts believe the way of the injections is key to understanding the amplified rebound.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates appetite.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone levels several times higher than the body's typical production could lead to the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and could lessen responsiveness to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement means hunger is unsuppressed, making binge eating much more probable."
A Lifelong Condition?
Medical guidelines advise the jabs for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Professionals argue that, due to the high risk of relapse, the therapy might need to be long-term.
This opinion is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the findings "highlight the chronic character of excess weight," akin to managing diseases like hypertension.
User Experiences
People who have stopped the medication describe a intense return of appetite.
"It was like a trigger that goes on and I was suddenly ravenous," said a patient.
This challenge is compounded if individuals have not adopted sustainable dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Growing Use
Figures suggest that millions of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with desire continuing to grow.
- Adoption is higher among women than males.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion access the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Ultimately, experts caution that while these medications are potent agents for weight loss, they are not a magic cure and long-term success hinges on integrated lifestyle management.
