New research reveals that patients who discontinue new slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on lost weight at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop conventional diet and exercise regimens.
Findings released in a leading medical journal points out that while overweight individuals frequently drop about a fifth of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the mass comes back at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"Individuals buying these drugs need to be informed of the danger of rapid rebound weight gain when the treatment ends," stated researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain means a return to starting mass in about 18 months.
Analyzing Approaches
The research, which looked at 37 of trials involving thousands of patients, compared the outcomes of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
Researchers note that people who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone typically have a slower creep back—around 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
The Reason for the Rapid Regain
Experts propose the mode of action of the drugs is key to understanding the heightened rebound.
GLP-1 drugs copy a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which helps regulate hunger.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 concentrations far above than normal may cause the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and could lessen sensitivity to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement leads to appetite is no longer kept in check, making overeating far more likely."
A Lifelong Issue?
Health authorities advise the injections for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians contend that, due to the significant potential of relapse, the treatment should be considered life-long.
This perspective is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the results "emphasize the chronic character of obesity," comparing it to managing diseases like diabetes.
User Experiences
Individuals who have discontinued the jabs report a sudden return of cravings.
"I experienced something activating and I was suddenly extremely hungry," recalled an individual.
This challenge is exacerbated if patients have not developed lasting dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Growing Adoption
Figures show that millions of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with desire remaining high.
- Use is greater among women than males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- Many access the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, clinicians emphasize that while these medications are powerful agents for shedding pounds, they are not a magic solution and lasting health benefits relies on ongoing lifestyle changes.
