A recent study reveals that people who stop using new slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide tend to recover lost weight far faster than those who stop traditional diet and exercise plans.
Research printed in a prominent health publication shows that while overweight people often shed about a fifth of their body weight while using the jabs, the weight is regained at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Users purchasing such treatments need to be informed of the risk of quick weight regain when the medication concludes," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain means a return to starting mass in about 18 months.
Comparing Therapies
The study, which looked at dozens of trials involving thousands of participants, contrasted the results of GLP-1 agonists with other pills.
The team point out that people who shed pounds through diet and exercise generally see a more gradual creep back—approximately 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
Explaining the Fast Regain
Experts propose the way of the jabs explains the accelerated rebound.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a natural hormone called GLP-1, which moderates hunger.
"Long-term administration of the hormone levels several times higher than the body's typical production might result in the system to produce less of its own natural hormone, and could diminish responsiveness to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Discontinuation of this medication leads to hunger is unsuppressed, making overeating a significant risk."
An Ongoing Disease?
Medical guidelines suggest the jabs for people with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
Many experts say that, due to the high risk of relapse, the treatment is often long-term.
This perspective is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the results "underscore the chronic character of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
User Accounts
People who have discontinued the medication explain a intense resurgence of cravings.
"It was like something that goes on and I was suddenly extremely hungry," recalled an individual.
The struggle is worsened if individuals have not developed sustainable lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Growing Interest
Figures show that a significant number of adults in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with demand continuing to grow.
- Adoption is greater among women compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many access the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Ultimately, researchers caution that while these medications are potent agents for weight loss, they are not a magic fix and lasting health benefits hinges on ongoing behavioural changes.
