New research suggests that people who stop using new slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on reduced body mass much more quickly than those who stop traditional lifestyle programs.
Published data in a prominent health publication points out that while overweight individuals frequently drop a large proportion of their body weight while using the jabs, the mass is regained at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Users using such medications should be cognizant of the danger of fast weight regain when the treatment concludes," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain implies a return to original mass within about one and a half years.
Analyzing Approaches
The analysis, which reviewed 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the outcomes of these new drugs with other pills.
Researchers emphasize that individuals who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone generally experience a slower creep back—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Understanding the Fast Rebound
Doctors propose the mode of action of the drugs explains the accelerated weight return.
The injections imitate a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 levels several times higher than normal may cause the system to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and may also lessen responsiveness to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' leads to hunger is unsuppressed, making binge eating a significant risk."
An Ongoing Condition?
Health authorities suggest the injections for people with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians contend that, given the significant potential of relapse, the treatment should be considered long-term.
This view is echoed by drug manufacturers, who state that the findings "emphasize the chronic character of obesity," akin to managing conditions like hypertension.
Patient Testimonies
People who have discontinued the jabs describe a powerful return of appetite.
"It felt as if a switch that goes on and I was suddenly ravenous," recalled one woman.
This difficulty is exacerbated if patients have not adopted sustainable lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Significant Use
Survey data show that millions of people in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with desire remaining high.
- Adoption is higher among females compared to males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Finally, experts caution that while GLP-1 drugs are effective tools for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone solution and lasting health benefits likely depends on combined behavioural management.
