New research suggests that individuals who discontinue blockbuster slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on lost weight at a significantly accelerated pace than those who end traditional lifestyle regimens.
Findings released in a major medical journal demonstrates that while obese individuals can lose about a fifth of their total mass while using the jabs, the mass comes back at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"People purchasing these drugs need to be aware of the risk of rapid rebound weight gain when the treatment ends," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain implies a reversion to starting weight in about 18 months.
Weighing Approaches
The study, which examined 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the outcomes of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
The team note that individuals who shed pounds through dieting usually have a more gradual weight regain—around 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
Explaining the Fast Regain
Experts suggest the way of the drugs explains the amplified regain.
The injections copy a natural hormone called GLP-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 concentrations far above than the body's typical production may cause the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and may also reduce sensitivity to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement means hunger is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating much more probable."
An Ongoing Condition?
Health authorities recommend the jabs for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals contend that, due to the likelihood of weight regain, the therapy is often ongoing.
This perspective is echoed by drug manufacturers, who say that the findings "emphasize the chronic character of obesity," akin to managing diseases like hypertension.
Patient Experiences
Users who have stopped the medication report a powerful return of cravings.
"It was like a switch that goes on and I was suddenly ravenous," recalled one woman.
This challenge is worsened if patients have not adopted lasting lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Widespread Adoption
Figures suggest that millions of people in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with desire being substantial.
- Use is higher among women compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
In conclusion, clinicians emphasize that while GLP-1 drugs are potent agents for weight loss, they are not a standalone solution and maintained weight loss likely depends on integrated lifestyle support.
