Fresh analysis suggests that individuals who stop using blockbuster slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide tend to recover lost weight far faster than those who stop conventional diet and exercise programs.
Research printed in a major medical journal shows that while overweight people often shed substantial amounts of their body weight while on the medication, the mass returns at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"People buying such drugs should be informed of the danger of quick weight regain when the medication concludes," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain implies a return to pre-treatment mass within about 18 months.
Weighing Therapies
The research, which examined dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the outcomes of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
Researchers point out that individuals who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone usually see a less rapid weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Explaining the Quick Rebound
Nutrition scientists propose the mechanism of the drugs accounts for the heightened regain.
These medications mimic a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of the hormone levels several times higher than normal might result in the body to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and could reduce responsiveness to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Withdrawal of this GLP-1 'fix' means appetite is uncontrolled, making excessive eating far more likely."
A Chronic Issue?
The NHS advise the injections for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians argue that, considering the high risk of weight regain, the therapy is often life-long.
This opinion is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the results "highlight the persistent nature of obesity," comparing it to managing conditions like diabetes.
Patient Testimonies
Users who have stopped the jabs describe a powerful return of cravings.
"It was like a trigger that goes on and you're instantly extremely hungry," said an individual.
This challenge is exacerbated if individuals have not established permanent lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Growing Adoption
Survey data indicate that millions of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with demand remaining high.
- Use is more common among females compared to males.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, clinicians stress that while the jabs are potent agents for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent fix and long-term success relies on integrated lifestyle management.
