New research reveals that people who stop using new slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on reduced body mass much more quickly than those who stop traditional diet and exercise regimens.
Published data in a prominent health publication points out that while obese individuals frequently drop about a fifth of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the mass is regained at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Users purchasing these drugs should be aware of the risk of fast rebound weight gain when the treatment concludes," stated lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain implies a return to pre-treatment mass in about a year and a half.
Analyzing Treatments
The research, which looked at dozens of trials involving thousands of participants, compared the results of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
Researchers note that people who lose weight through diet and exercise typically experience a less rapid weight regain—perhaps 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
The Reason for the Rapid Regain
Doctors propose the mechanism of the jabs is key to understanding the amplified weight return.
The injections imitate a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production may cause the system to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also lessen responsiveness to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Discontinuation of this GLP-1 'fix' results in hunger is unsuppressed, making binge eating far more likely."
An Ongoing Disease?
Medical guidelines advise the injections for people with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals contend that, due to the significant potential of weight regain, the therapy should be considered long-term.
This view is echoed by drug manufacturers, who note that the results "highlight the long-term character of excess weight," akin to managing conditions like diabetes.
Patient Testimonies
People who have discontinued the jabs describe a sudden return of cravings.
"It was like something that goes on and you become starving," described an individual.
This challenge is compounded if users have not adopted permanent dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Growing Interest
Figures show that a significant number of people in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with interest being substantial.
- Use is greater among females than men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, clinicians stress that while these medications are powerful tools for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent solution and long-term success hinges on integrated behavioural changes.
