A recent study suggests that people who stop using blockbuster slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide may regain reduced body mass much more quickly than those who stop conventional diet and exercise plans.
Research printed in a leading medical journal points out that while obese people often shed a large proportion of their body weight while using the jabs, the weight returns at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"Users using these medications must be aware of the potential of fast weight regain when the therapy ends," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain means a reversion to pre-treatment weight in about a year and a half.
Analyzing Treatments
The study, which looked at 37 of trials involving thousands of participants, compared the results of these new drugs with older methods.
Researchers point out that people who shed pounds through dieting typically experience a less rapid weight regain—perhaps 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
Understanding the Fast Rebound
Experts suggest the way of the jabs explains the heightened weight return.
GLP-1 drugs copy a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls appetite.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production could lead to the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and may also lessen responsiveness to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Withdrawal of this GLP-1 'fix' results in appetite is unsuppressed, making overeating a significant risk."
An Ongoing Disease?
Health authorities advise the injections for people with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts say that, due to the high risk of weight regain, the therapy should be considered long-term.
This opinion is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the results "highlight the long-term character of obesity," similar to managing conditions like hypertension.
User Accounts
Users who have come off the jabs explain a intense resurgence of cravings.
"It was like a switch that goes on and you become starving," described one woman.
This difficulty is worsened if patients have not adopted permanent dietary or behavioural modifications during treatment.
Widespread Adoption
Figures show that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with interest continuing to grow.
- Adoption is higher among women than males.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many access the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Ultimately, experts stress that while the jabs are potent agents for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone fix and maintained weight loss relies on ongoing behavioural management.
