New research reveals that individuals who come off blockbuster slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide may regain lost weight much more quickly than those who stop traditional lifestyle regimens.
Findings released in a prominent medical journal shows that while obese individuals frequently drop a large proportion of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the weight comes back at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Individuals purchasing such drugs need to be aware of the danger of rapid weight regain when the therapy concludes," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain means a return to pre-treatment mass in about 18 months.
Weighing Approaches
The research, which reviewed 37 of studies involving thousands 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—around 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
Explaining the Rapid Rebound
Doctors propose the way of the drugs accounts for the accelerated weight return.
These medications mimic a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing the hormone levels several times higher than normal might result in the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and may also diminish responsiveness to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement means appetite is no longer kept in check, making overeating much more probable."
A Lifelong Condition?
Medical guidelines recommend the jabs for people with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians contend that, due to the likelihood of weight regain, the treatment should be considered life-long.
This perspective is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the findings "underscore the persistent nature of excess weight," comparing it to managing diseases like hypertension.
Patient Experiences
Individuals who have discontinued the medication explain a sudden resurgence of appetite.
"I experienced a trigger flipping and you're instantly ravenous," said an individual.
This difficulty is exacerbated if users have not developed permanent lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Widespread Interest
Survey data indicate that a significant number of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with interest continuing to grow.
- Use is greater among women compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Finally, clinicians caution that while the jabs are potent agents for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent solution and long-term success relies on combined behavioural support.
