Fresh analysis reveals that individuals who discontinue popular slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on lost weight at a significantly accelerated pace than those who halt conventional lifestyle programs.
Published data in a leading health publication shows that while obese individuals often shed substantial amounts of their body weight while using the jabs, the mass is regained at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Individuals purchasing these medications should be informed of the potential of fast rebound weight gain when the medication concludes," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery means a return to original mass in about one and a half years.
Analyzing Treatments
The study, which reviewed 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the outcomes of these new drugs with other pills.
The team emphasize that individuals who lose weight through diet and exercise generally experience a slower creep back—approximately 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Explaining the Rapid Regain
Doctors believe the way of the jabs explains the accelerated weight return.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which helps regulate hunger.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone concentrations far above than the body's typical production may cause the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and could diminish responsiveness to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Withdrawal of this medication results in hunger is no longer kept in check, making binge eating much more probable."
An Ongoing Issue?
Health authorities advise the jabs for people with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
Many experts contend that, considering the significant potential of relapse, the therapy is often long-term.
This perspective is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the findings "emphasize the chronic character of obesity," similar to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Testimonies
Users who have stopped the medication explain a powerful resurgence of appetite.
"It was like something activating and I was suddenly extremely hungry," said an individual.
This challenge is exacerbated if individuals have not established permanent dietary or behavioural modifications during treatment.
Significant Use
Survey data indicate that a significant number of adults in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with interest continuing to grow.
- Adoption is greater among women than men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Finally, experts emphasize that while these medications are powerful tools for weight loss, they are not a magic solution and long-term success relies on ongoing lifestyle changes.
