New research reveals that individuals who stop using popular slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide may regain lost weight at a significantly accelerated pace than those who halt conventional diet and exercise programs.
Published data in a leading medical journal shows that while obese people often shed substantial amounts of their body weight while using the jabs, the weight comes back at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Individuals buying such drugs need to be cognizant of the potential of rapid rebound weight gain when the treatment ends," stated lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery means a reversion to original weight within about 18 months.
Comparing Approaches
The study, which examined 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the results of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
The team note that individuals who shed pounds through diet and exercise typically have a less rapid creep back—around 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
Explaining the Quick Rebound
Experts believe the way of the drugs explains the amplified regain.
The injections copy a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate hunger.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 levels several times higher than normal might result in the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and could lessen responsiveness to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement means hunger is unsuppressed, making excessive eating much more probable."
An Ongoing Disease?
The NHS suggest the injections for individuals with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Many experts contend that, considering the significant potential of weight regain, the therapy might need to be long-term.
This view is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the results "highlight the chronic character of excess weight," comparing it to managing diseases like diabetes.
User Accounts
People who have come off the medication explain a intense resurgence of cravings.
"I experienced a switch that goes on and you become extremely hungry," described an individual.
This challenge is exacerbated if individuals have not established permanent lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Growing Adoption
Survey data suggest that a significant number of adults in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with demand being substantial.
- Use is greater among women than males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Ultimately, clinicians emphasize that while these medications are powerful tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent cure and maintained weight loss likely depends on ongoing behavioural support.
