New research indicates that people who discontinue popular slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on lost weight much more quickly than those who end traditional lifestyle plans.
Research printed in a major health publication points out that while overweight individuals often shed about a fifth of their body weight while on the medication, the weight returns at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"People buying such treatments must be informed of the danger of quick rebound weight gain when the therapy ends," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery implies a reversion to pre-treatment weight within about a year and a half.
Analyzing Approaches
The research, which examined dozens of trials involving thousands of patients, contrasted the results of these new drugs with other pills.
Scientists point out that people who lose weight through dieting generally experience a more gradual weight regain—approximately 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
Understanding the Rapid Regain
Nutrition scientists suggest the way of the drugs accounts for the amplified regain.
GLP-1 drugs copy a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates appetite.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone concentrations far above than the body's typical production may cause the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and could diminish sensitivity to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement leads to hunger is unsuppressed, making binge eating a significant risk."
A Lifelong Condition?
The NHS advise the injections for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals argue that, considering the significant potential of weight regain, the treatment should be considered ongoing.
This view is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the results "underscore the chronic character of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like hypertension.
Patient Experiences
Users who have come off the jabs describe a intense resurgence of appetite.
"I experienced a trigger activating and you become ravenous," described one woman.
This challenge is exacerbated if users have not established permanent dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Growing Interest
Figures show that millions of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with interest continuing to grow.
- Adoption is more common among females compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- Many access the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Finally, clinicians stress that while GLP-1 drugs are effective tools for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent solution and maintained weight loss likely depends on integrated behavioural management.
