A recent study reveals that people who discontinue new slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on shed pounds far faster than those who stop traditional diet and exercise regimens.
Findings released in a major medical journal points out that while overweight individuals often shed a large proportion of their total mass while using the jabs, the weight is regained at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Users buying these drugs should be aware of the danger of fast rebound weight gain when the therapy concludes," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery implies a reversion to starting mass within about 18 months.
Analyzing Treatments
The research, which reviewed dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the outcomes of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
The team note that individuals who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone usually see a slower weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Explaining the Quick Rebound
Experts propose the mechanism of the injections explains the accelerated regain.
The injections copy a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates hunger.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone concentrations several times higher than normal may cause the body to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and could lessen sensitivity to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Discontinuation of this medication means appetite is unsuppressed, making excessive eating far more likely."
An Ongoing Condition?
Health authorities advise the injections for people with weight-linked health risks, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
Professionals say that, due to the high risk of weight regain, the treatment is often ongoing.
This view is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the findings "underscore the long-term nature of excess weight," comparing it to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
Patient Testimonies
People who have stopped the medication explain a powerful resurgence of appetite.
"I experienced a trigger that goes on and you become starving," said an individual.
This challenge is exacerbated if users have not established sustainable dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Growing Use
Figures suggest that a significant number of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with demand remaining high.
- Use is more common among females than men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion access the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Ultimately, experts caution that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful agents for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone cure and long-term success relies on integrated behavioural management.
