A recent study indicates that people who discontinue popular slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide tend to recover lost weight far faster than those who end traditional lifestyle plans.
Findings released in a leading health publication shows that while obese people can lose substantial amounts of their total mass while using the jabs, the weight is regained at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Users purchasing such drugs must be informed of the risk of quick weight regain when the therapy ends," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery implies a return to starting mass in about a year and a half.
Comparing Approaches
The research, which looked at 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the results of GLP-1 agonists with older methods.
Scientists point out that people who lose weight through diet and exercise generally experience a less rapid creep back—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Understanding the Fast Rebound
Experts suggest the mode of action of the injections explains the heightened weight return.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate hunger.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than normal may cause the system to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and may also lessen sensitivity to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Withdrawal of this medication results in appetite is uncontrolled, making excessive eating much more probable."
A Chronic Disease?
The NHS suggest the injections for people with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians argue that, due to the high risk of relapse, the therapy is often ongoing.
This perspective is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the findings "underscore the long-term nature of excess weight," comparing it to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Experiences
People who have discontinued the jabs report a powerful return of cravings.
"I experienced something that goes on and you become extremely hungry," said an individual.
This challenge is worsened if individuals have not established lasting lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Significant Use
Survey data indicate that a significant number of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with interest remaining high.
- Adoption is greater among women compared to males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- Many obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
In conclusion, clinicians emphasize that while these medications are powerful agents for weight loss, they are not a magic cure and maintained weight loss likely depends on integrated behavioural support.
