A recent study suggests that individuals who stop using popular slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on lost weight at a significantly accelerated pace than those who end conventional diet and exercise plans.
Research printed in a prominent medical journal demonstrates that while overweight people frequently drop about a fifth of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the mass comes back at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Users purchasing such treatments should be cognizant of the danger of fast weight regain when the medication is stopped," stated lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain implies a return to original weight within about 18 months.
Weighing Approaches
The analysis, which looked at 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the results of GLP-1 agonists with conventional dieting.
Scientists point out that individuals who shed pounds through dieting typically have a slower weight regain—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
The Reason for the Rapid Rebound
Experts propose the way of the injections explains the accelerated regain.
These medications imitate a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls hunger.
"Artificially providing the hormone levels far above than the body's typical production could lead to the system to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and may also reduce responsiveness to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Withdrawal of this medication means appetite is unsuppressed, making excessive eating far more likely."
A Chronic Disease?
Medical guidelines recommend the jabs for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians argue that, given the likelihood of relapse, the treatment should be considered life-long.
This perspective is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the findings "underscore the long-term nature of excess weight," akin to managing conditions like hypertension.
Patient Testimonies
People who have come off the jabs describe a powerful resurgence of cravings.
"I experienced a trigger that goes on and you become ravenous," said one woman.
The struggle is compounded if individuals have not adopted permanent lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Significant Interest
Recent estimates suggest that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with demand being substantial.
- Use is higher among women than men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, clinicians stress that while the jabs are potent agents for shedding pounds, they are not a magic solution and lasting health benefits likely depends on integrated lifestyle management.
