New research suggests that people who stop using blockbuster slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on shed pounds far faster than those who halt traditional lifestyle regimens.
Findings released in a leading health publication demonstrates that while overweight individuals often shed about a fifth of their total mass while using the jabs, the weight comes back at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Individuals purchasing these drugs should be cognizant of the risk of quick rebound weight gain when the medication concludes," stated lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery means a reversion to pre-treatment mass within about 18 months.
Weighing Therapies
The study, which examined dozens of trials involving thousands of participants, compared the effects of GLP-1 agonists with older methods.
Scientists note that individuals who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone typically experience a slower creep back—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Explaining the Fast Rebound
Nutrition scientists propose the way of the injections explains the heightened weight return.
These medications imitate a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone concentrations far above than normal may cause the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and could reduce sensitivity to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Stopping of this medication means hunger is uncontrolled, making excessive eating far more likely."
An Ongoing Issue?
Health authorities suggest the injections for people with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts contend that, given the likelihood of weight regain, the treatment is often ongoing.
This view is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who say that the results "emphasize the persistent nature of excess weight," akin to managing diseases like hypertension.
Patient Accounts
Individuals who have come off the medication describe a sudden return of hunger.
"It was like something flipping and I was suddenly ravenous," said an individual.
This challenge is compounded if users have not established lasting dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Widespread Adoption
Survey data suggest that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with demand remaining high.
- Adoption is higher among women than men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, experts caution that while the jabs are potent tools for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone fix and lasting health benefits relies on ongoing behavioural support.
