New research suggests that people who come off new slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide tend to recover reduced body mass at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop conventional lifestyle programs.
Findings released in a leading medical journal demonstrates that while obese people often shed substantial amounts of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the weight returns at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Users using such drugs need to be informed of the potential of rapid weight regain when the therapy is stopped," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain implies a return to starting mass within about 18 months.
Comparing Approaches
The study, which looked at dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the effects of the injectable medications with older methods.
The team note that individuals who shed pounds through dieting usually see a less rapid creep back—approximately 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
The Reason for the Quick Rebound
Nutrition scientists propose the way of the injections accounts for the heightened rebound.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which controls hunger.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone levels several times higher than the body's typical production might result in the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and could diminish sensitivity to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Stopping of this medication means hunger is unsuppressed, making overeating a significant risk."
A Chronic Issue?
The NHS recommend the injections for people with obesity-related health risks, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
Professionals say that, given the likelihood of weight regain, the therapy is often long-term.
This view is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the findings "emphasize the chronic nature of obesity," akin to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
User Testimonies
People who have come off the medication explain a powerful resurgence of hunger.
"I experienced something flipping and I was suddenly extremely hungry," said one woman.
This challenge is compounded if users have not adopted sustainable dietary or behavioural modifications during treatment.
Growing Use
Figures show that millions of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with interest being substantial.
- Use is greater among females compared to men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest level of interest.
- Many access the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
In conclusion, researchers caution that while the jabs are powerful agents for weight loss, they are not a permanent fix and lasting health benefits relies on ongoing behavioural management.
