New research indicates that patients who come off new slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on lost weight much more quickly than those who stop conventional diet and exercise regimens.
Findings released in a major medical journal points out that while obese individuals frequently drop about a fifth of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the mass returns at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"People buying such drugs need to be informed of the potential of rapid rebound weight gain when the therapy is stopped," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery implies a return to pre-treatment mass in about 18 months.
Comparing Approaches
The analysis, which looked at 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the outcomes of the injectable medications with older methods.
Researchers note that people who shed pounds through diet and exercise typically have a more gradual creep back—approximately 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Understanding the Quick Regain
Nutrition scientists suggest the mechanism of the injections accounts for the accelerated rebound.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 concentrations far above than normal may cause the system to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and could diminish sensitivity to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' results in hunger is unsuppressed, making binge eating far more likely."
An Ongoing Condition?
Medical guidelines advise the jabs for people with weight-linked health risks, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
Professionals say that, given the significant potential of relapse, the treatment should be considered life-long.
This opinion is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the results "highlight the long-term character of excess weight," comparing it to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
Patient Testimonies
Individuals who have discontinued the medication describe a powerful return of hunger.
"It felt as if something that goes on and you become ravenous," recalled a patient.
The struggle is compounded if individuals have not developed lasting dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Widespread Interest
Figures show that millions of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with desire continuing to grow.
- Use is higher among women compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, researchers emphasize that while these medications are potent tools for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone solution and maintained weight loss relies on integrated lifestyle management.
