A recent study indicates that patients who stop using popular slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide may regain reduced body mass much more quickly than those who stop conventional lifestyle programs.
Research printed in a prominent health publication points out that while overweight individuals can lose about a fifth of their total mass while using the jabs, the weight returns at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Users purchasing these treatments need to be informed of the risk of quick rebound weight gain when the therapy concludes," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain means a return to starting mass within about one and a half years.
Weighing Treatments
The research, which examined dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the outcomes of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
Researchers point out that individuals who lose weight through dieting typically experience a less rapid weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
The Reason for the Fast Regain
Experts suggest the way of the injections is key to understanding the amplified regain.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates appetite.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 levels several times higher than normal may cause the body to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and may also reduce responsiveness to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement means appetite is uncontrolled, making overeating a significant risk."
A Lifelong Issue?
The NHS advise the jabs for people with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Many experts contend that, due to the likelihood of relapse, the therapy should be considered long-term.
This view is echoed by drug manufacturers, who state that the results "underscore the persistent nature of excess weight," comparing it to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
User Experiences
People who have stopped the medication report a powerful resurgence of appetite.
"It felt as if something activating and you become ravenous," described a patient.
The struggle is worsened if individuals have not developed permanent dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Growing Interest
Figures indicate that a significant number of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with interest remaining high.
- Adoption is greater among females compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
In conclusion, experts emphasize that while GLP-1 drugs are potent tools for weight loss, they are not a magic solution and maintained weight loss likely depends on ongoing lifestyle management.
