A recent study suggests that people who stop using new slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide tend to recover shed pounds far faster than those who end traditional lifestyle plans.
Findings released in a major medical journal points out that while overweight individuals frequently drop a large proportion of their total mass while on the medication, the mass comes back at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Individuals buying such drugs need to be aware of the risk of quick weight regain when the therapy concludes," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain implies a reversion to original mass in about a year and a half.
Analyzing Approaches
The study, which examined 37 of trials involving thousands of patients, contrasted the results of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
Scientists emphasize that people who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone usually see a less rapid creep back—approximately 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
The Reason for the Rapid Rebound
Nutrition scientists believe the mode of action of the drugs explains the heightened rebound.
The injections mimic a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Artificially providing the hormone levels several times higher than the body's typical production may cause the system to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and could reduce sensitivity to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Discontinuation of this medication results in appetite is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating far more likely."
A Chronic Condition?
The NHS advise the jabs for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
Many experts argue that, considering the significant potential of relapse, the treatment is often ongoing.
This perspective is echoed by drug manufacturers, who note that the findings "emphasize the chronic character of obesity," akin to managing diseases like hypertension.
User Experiences
People who have stopped the jabs report a powerful resurgence of appetite.
"It felt as if a switch that goes on and I was suddenly starving," said an individual.
This challenge is exacerbated if patients have not established lasting lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Significant Interest
Survey data suggest that millions of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with demand being substantial.
- Use is higher among females than males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion access the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Finally, experts emphasize that while these medications are powerful tools for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone solution and long-term success likely depends on integrated lifestyle support.
