A recent study suggests that people who discontinue popular slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide tend to recover lost weight much more quickly than those who end traditional diet and exercise programs.
Published data in a major health publication demonstrates that while overweight people can lose substantial amounts of their body weight while on the medication, the mass returns at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"People using these drugs should be informed of the risk of quick rebound weight gain when the treatment is stopped," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain suggests a reversion to pre-treatment weight in about a year and a half.
Weighing Approaches
The study, which looked at 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the results of these new drugs with other pills.
Researchers point out that individuals who lose weight through dieting typically see a slower creep back—around 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
Understanding the Quick Regain
Nutrition scientists suggest the way of the jabs accounts for the heightened weight return.
The injections mimic a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 levels far above than the body's typical production may cause the body to produce less of its own natural hormone, and may also lessen responsiveness to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement leads to appetite is no longer kept in check, making binge eating far more likely."
An Ongoing Disease?
The NHS advise the injections for individuals with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians argue that, given the significant potential of relapse, the treatment should be considered ongoing.
This opinion is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the results "highlight the chronic nature of excess weight," similar to managing diseases like hypertension.
User Testimonies
People who have come off the jabs report a sudden return of hunger.
"It felt as if a switch activating and I was suddenly extremely hungry," said a patient.
This difficulty is exacerbated if users have not adopted lasting lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Significant Adoption
Survey data indicate that millions of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with interest being substantial.
- Use is higher among females than males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Ultimately, researchers caution that while GLP-1 drugs are effective tools for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent solution and lasting health benefits relies on integrated lifestyle management.
