A recent study suggests that patients who discontinue new slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide tend to recover reduced body mass far faster than those who end traditional lifestyle plans.
Findings released in a prominent health publication shows that while obese people can lose substantial amounts of their body weight while on the medication, the weight returns at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"People purchasing such drugs should be informed of the risk of rapid weight regain when the therapy concludes," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain implies a reversion to original mass within about 18 months.
Analyzing Approaches
The research, which looked at 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the outcomes of GLP-1 agonists with other pills.
The team point out that people who lose weight through diet and exercise typically experience a less rapid creep back—around 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
The Reason for the Fast Rebound
Experts suggest the mechanism of the drugs explains the accelerated regain.
The injections imitate a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls appetite.
"Artificially providing the hormone concentrations far above than the body's typical production could lead to the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and could reduce responsiveness to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement results in hunger is no longer kept in check, making binge eating a significant risk."
An Ongoing Issue?
The NHS recommend the injections for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians argue that, due to the high risk of relapse, the treatment should be considered ongoing.
This view is echoed by drug manufacturers, who state that the findings "underscore the chronic nature of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like hypertension.
Patient Experiences
Users who have stopped the jabs explain a intense resurgence of cravings.
"I experienced a trigger activating and I was suddenly ravenous," recalled an individual.
The struggle is compounded if users have not developed permanent lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Growing Adoption
Survey data show that millions of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with desire remaining high.
- Use is greater among females than males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion access the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, experts caution that while these medications are potent agents for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone solution and long-term success hinges on combined lifestyle support.
