New research reveals that individuals who stop using new slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on shed pounds at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop traditional lifestyle programs.
Research printed in a prominent health publication points out that while overweight individuals can lose about a fifth of their total mass while using the jabs, the weight is regained at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Individuals buying such treatments must be informed of the danger of quick weight regain when the therapy concludes," stated researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain suggests a reversion to original weight in about 18 months.
Comparing Therapies
The analysis, which reviewed 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the effects of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
Scientists point out that people who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone typically see a more gradual weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
The Reason for the Fast Rebound
Doctors propose the mechanism of the injections accounts for the heightened regain.
These medications imitate a natural hormone called GLP-1, which moderates hunger.
"Artificially providing the hormone concentrations several times higher than normal could lead to the system to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and could reduce sensitivity to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Withdrawal of this medication results in appetite is uncontrolled, making excessive eating far more likely."
A Chronic Disease?
Health authorities advise the injections for individuals with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
Many experts say that, given the significant potential of relapse, the therapy might need to be life-long.
This perspective is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who say that the results "underscore the long-term character of obesity," comparing it to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
Patient Experiences
Individuals who have discontinued the medication describe a sudden resurgence of appetite.
"I experienced a trigger flipping and you become ravenous," described one woman.
This challenge is exacerbated if individuals have not adopted lasting lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Growing Interest
Recent estimates show that millions of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with demand remaining high.
- Adoption is more common among women compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
In conclusion, experts emphasize that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful tools for shedding pounds, they are not a magic solution and maintained weight loss likely depends on combined behavioural changes.
