New research indicates that people who come off popular slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on shed pounds at a significantly accelerated pace than those who end traditional diet and exercise plans.
Research printed in a leading health publication demonstrates that while obese people frequently drop a large proportion of their body weight while using the jabs, the weight is regained at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"People purchasing such drugs must be cognizant of the potential of fast rebound weight gain when the medication concludes," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery suggests a reversion to pre-treatment weight in about a year and a half.
Comparing Therapies
The analysis, which looked at dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the outcomes of the injectable medications with older methods.
The team point out that people who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone generally see a less rapid weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Understanding the Rapid Regain
Experts propose the mode of action of the drugs accounts for the accelerated regain.
GLP-1 drugs copy a natural hormone called GLP-1, which controls appetite.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone concentrations far above than normal might result in the system to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and may also reduce sensitivity to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Withdrawal of this GLP-1 'fix' leads to hunger is no longer kept in check, making binge eating a significant risk."
A Chronic Condition?
Health authorities advise the injections for individuals with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians say that, given the likelihood of relapse, the treatment might need to be long-term.
This perspective is echoed by drug manufacturers, who note that the findings "underscore the chronic nature of excess weight," comparing it to managing conditions like hypertension.
User Experiences
People who have stopped the jabs report a sudden return of appetite.
"It felt as if something flipping and you're instantly starving," recalled an individual.
This challenge is exacerbated if patients have not developed lasting lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Widespread Use
Recent estimates show that a significant number of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with interest continuing to grow.
- Adoption is more common among females than men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
In conclusion, researchers caution that while the jabs are potent agents for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone fix and long-term success hinges on integrated behavioural changes.
