Fresh analysis indicates that patients who discontinue popular slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on shed pounds far faster than those who stop conventional lifestyle regimens.
Findings released in a major medical journal shows that while overweight people often shed substantial amounts of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the weight returns at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"People buying these medications need to be informed of the potential of fast weight regain when the medication ends," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery implies a reversion to original weight in about one and a half years.
Weighing Approaches
The analysis, which examined dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the outcomes of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
Researchers emphasize that people who lose weight through dieting generally have a less rapid creep back—approximately 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Explaining the Quick Rebound
Experts believe the mechanism of the jabs explains the amplified regain.
These medications imitate a natural hormone called GLP-1, which controls appetite.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 levels several times higher than normal might result in the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also lessen sensitivity to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement leads to appetite is no longer kept in check, making binge eating a significant risk."
A Chronic Condition?
The NHS recommend the injections for individuals with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians contend that, given the significant potential of weight regain, the therapy should be considered ongoing.
This view is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the findings "highlight the chronic nature of obesity," akin to managing conditions like diabetes.
User Experiences
Individuals who have stopped the medication explain a powerful resurgence of hunger.
"It was like a switch flipping and I was suddenly ravenous," recalled an individual.
This difficulty is compounded if individuals have not established sustainable dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Growing Adoption
Recent estimates show that millions of people in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with interest being substantial.
- Use is higher among women compared to males.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest usage rates.
- Many access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, experts emphasize that while the jabs are potent agents for shedding pounds, they are not a magic solution and lasting health benefits relies on integrated behavioural changes.
