New research indicates that individuals who come off new slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on lost weight far faster than those who stop conventional diet and exercise programs.
Published data in a major health publication demonstrates that while obese individuals can lose a large proportion of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the mass is regained at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"People buying these drugs need to be informed of the potential of quick rebound weight gain when the treatment is stopped," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain suggests a reversion to pre-treatment mass within about one and a half years.
Comparing Therapies
The analysis, which reviewed dozens of trials involving thousands of participants, contrasted the outcomes of GLP-1 agonists with other pills.
The team note that individuals who lose weight through dieting usually see a more gradual creep back—approximately 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
The Reason for the Quick Regain
Experts believe the mechanism of the jabs accounts for the accelerated rebound.
The injections mimic a natural hormone called GLP-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 levels several times higher than normal could lead to the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and could lessen responsiveness to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement results in appetite is no longer kept in check, making overeating far more likely."
A Lifelong Disease?
Medical guidelines advise the injections for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Many experts contend that, considering the high risk of relapse, the therapy is often long-term.
This perspective is echoed by drug manufacturers, who say that the findings "highlight the long-term nature of obesity," similar to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
Patient Testimonies
Users who have come off the jabs report a sudden return of hunger.
"I experienced a trigger flipping and you're instantly starving," said one woman.
The struggle is worsened if users have not adopted lasting lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Growing Adoption
Figures show that millions of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with desire continuing to grow.
- Use is greater among females compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, experts caution that while these medications are effective agents for shedding pounds, they are not a magic cure and maintained weight loss likely depends on ongoing behavioural changes.
