A recent study indicates that people who stop using new slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide tend to recover lost weight much more quickly than those who halt conventional lifestyle plans.
Findings released in a leading medical journal demonstrates that while obese individuals can lose substantial amounts of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the mass returns at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Users buying such treatments need to be informed of the danger of quick rebound weight gain when the treatment is stopped," stated researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain implies a return to pre-treatment weight in about a year and a half.
Comparing Treatments
The study, which looked at 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the results of the injectable medications with other pills.
Researchers emphasize that individuals who lose weight through dieting usually have a less rapid weight regain—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Explaining the Fast Rebound
Doctors suggest the mechanism of the jabs accounts for the amplified regain.
The injections mimic a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which helps regulate hunger.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 levels far above than normal may cause the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and could lessen sensitivity to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Discontinuation of this medication means hunger is unsuppressed, making overeating much more probable."
An Ongoing Condition?
Health authorities recommend the jabs for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals contend that, considering the high risk of weight regain, the therapy is often ongoing.
This opinion is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the findings "emphasize the chronic nature of obesity," similar to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
User Accounts
Individuals who have stopped the jabs explain a sudden resurgence of cravings.
"I experienced a switch activating and you become extremely hungry," described a patient.
This challenge is compounded if patients have not established sustainable dietary or behavioural modifications during treatment.
Growing Interest
Recent estimates suggest that a significant number of adults in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with interest remaining high.
- Adoption is more common among women compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many access the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, researchers caution that while the jabs are potent agents for shedding pounds, they are not a magic fix and long-term success likely depends on combined behavioural support.
