New research indicates that individuals who discontinue popular slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide may regain shed pounds far faster than those who halt conventional diet and exercise plans.
Published data in a major health publication points out that while obese people frequently drop a large proportion of their body weight while using the jabs, the mass returns at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Users using these medications should be informed of the potential of rapid weight regain when the treatment ends," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery implies a return to starting weight within about one and a half years.
Comparing Approaches
The research, which looked at 37 of studies involving thousands of participants, compared the outcomes of the injectable medications with older methods.
Scientists point out that individuals who lose weight through diet and exercise typically experience a slower weight regain—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
Understanding the Fast Rebound
Nutrition scientists believe the mode of action of the injections explains the amplified regain.
The injections copy a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing the hormone levels several times higher than the body's typical production could lead to the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and could diminish sensitivity to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Stopping of this medication means hunger is unsuppressed, making binge eating far more likely."
A Chronic Disease?
Medical guidelines suggest the injections for people with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians contend that, considering the likelihood of relapse, the therapy should be considered life-long.
This perspective is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who note that the results "underscore the persistent character of excess weight," comparing it to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
User Testimonies
People who have come off the jabs report a intense return of cravings.
"It felt as if a trigger flipping and you become extremely hungry," said an individual.
The struggle is worsened if individuals have not developed permanent dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Growing Use
Recent estimates suggest that millions of adults in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with desire continuing to grow.
- Use is greater among women compared to men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Finally, experts stress that while GLP-1 drugs are effective agents for weight loss, they are not a standalone fix and maintained weight loss hinges on ongoing behavioural changes.
