Fresh analysis indicates that patients who discontinue popular slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide tend to recover shed pounds far faster than those who stop conventional diet and exercise programs.
Research printed in a leading medical journal demonstrates that while obese individuals frequently drop a large proportion of their total mass while on the medication, the weight returns at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Individuals buying such medications should be cognizant of the danger of quick rebound weight gain when the treatment concludes," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery suggests a reversion to starting weight within about a year and a half.
Weighing Therapies
The study, which looked at dozens of trials involving thousands of participants, contrasted the outcomes of the injectable medications with other pills.
Researchers point out that people who lose weight through diet and exercise typically see a more gradual weight regain—around 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
Explaining the Quick Rebound
Nutrition scientists believe the mode of action of the injections explains the heightened weight return.
These medications imitate a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production might result in the system to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and may also diminish responsiveness to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Withdrawal of this medication results in hunger is uncontrolled, making binge eating far more likely."
An Ongoing Disease?
The NHS recommend the injections for individuals with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Many experts argue that, considering the high risk of weight regain, the therapy should be considered long-term.
This perspective is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the findings "highlight the chronic nature of excess weight," comparing it to managing diseases like hypertension.
User Testimonies
People who have discontinued the jabs explain a intense resurgence of hunger.
"It felt as if a trigger activating and you're instantly ravenous," recalled a patient.
This challenge is worsened if individuals have not established lasting lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Growing Use
Figures suggest that a significant number of people in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with desire continuing to grow.
- Adoption is greater among females compared to men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest usage rates.
- Many access the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, researchers emphasize that while these medications are potent agents for weight loss, they are not a permanent fix and maintained weight loss relies on combined behavioural support.
