A recent study suggests that patients who discontinue new slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on shed pounds much more quickly than those who end traditional diet and exercise plans.
Published data in a leading medical journal shows that while overweight people often shed substantial amounts of their body weight while using the jabs, the mass comes back at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"People buying these drugs need to be informed of the potential of fast weight regain when the treatment ends," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain implies a return to original weight within about a year and a half.
Analyzing Approaches
The research, which looked at dozens of studies involving thousands of patients, compared the effects of the injectable medications with other pills.
The team point out that individuals who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone generally have a less rapid creep back—around 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
The Reason for the Fast Rebound
Doctors believe the mechanism of the drugs explains the amplified regain.
The injections imitate a natural hormone called GLP-1, which controls hunger.
"Long-term administration of the hormone concentrations several times higher than normal 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 dietetics specialist.
"Withdrawal of this GLP-1 'fix' leads to appetite is no longer kept in check, making overeating a significant risk."
A Chronic Disease?
Medical guidelines advise the jabs for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians contend that, due to the significant potential of weight regain, the treatment is often ongoing.
This opinion is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the results "underscore the persistent nature of obesity," akin to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Testimonies
People who have stopped the jabs report a intense return of cravings.
"It was like a trigger activating and you're instantly starving," described a patient.
The struggle is compounded if individuals have not adopted sustainable lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Significant Interest
Survey data show that millions of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with desire remaining high.
- Adoption is greater among women compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- Many obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, clinicians stress that while these medications are potent tools for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone solution and lasting health benefits likely depends on ongoing behavioural management.
