Fresh analysis reveals that individuals who discontinue popular slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide may regain shed pounds far faster than those who stop traditional diet and exercise plans.
Findings released in a major medical journal demonstrates that while obese individuals frequently drop about a fifth of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the weight returns at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Individuals buying these treatments need to be cognizant of the risk of rapid rebound weight gain when the therapy concludes," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery suggests a return to original weight in about a year and a half.
Analyzing Treatments
The research, which examined dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the outcomes of the injectable medications with older methods.
Scientists note that people who shed pounds through diet and exercise generally experience a slower creep back—around 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Understanding the Rapid Regain
Doctors propose the way of the drugs explains the amplified rebound.
GLP-1 drugs copy a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates hunger.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 levels far above than normal could lead to the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and may also reduce sensitivity to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' means hunger is unsuppressed, making binge eating far more likely."
An Ongoing Issue?
Health authorities advise the jabs for people with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
Many experts contend that, due to the likelihood of weight regain, the therapy is often long-term.
This perspective is supported by drug manufacturers, who state that the results "highlight the long-term character of excess weight," comparing it to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
Patient Experiences
People who have discontinued the medication report a sudden resurgence of hunger.
"I experienced something flipping and you're instantly extremely hungry," described one woman.
The struggle is compounded if individuals have not adopted permanent dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Significant Interest
Figures suggest that a significant number of adults in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with demand continuing to grow.
- Use is more common among females compared to males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many access the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, researchers emphasize that while the jabs are powerful tools for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone cure and long-term success likely depends on ongoing lifestyle support.
