A recent study reveals that individuals who discontinue new slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on reduced body mass at a significantly accelerated pace than those who end traditional diet and exercise programs.
Findings released in a major health publication demonstrates that while obese people can lose substantial amounts of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the mass returns at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Individuals buying such drugs should be informed of the risk of fast rebound weight gain when the therapy is stopped," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery suggests a reversion to starting weight in about 18 months.
Weighing Approaches
The research, which examined dozens of trials involving thousands of patients, contrasted the outcomes of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
Researchers emphasize that people who lose weight through dieting usually have a slower weight regain—approximately 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
The Reason for the Fast Rebound
Doctors propose the mechanism of the drugs is key to understanding the amplified regain.
The injections imitate a natural hormone called GLP-1, which helps regulate hunger.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 concentrations far above than the body's typical production may cause the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and could diminish sensitivity to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement results in appetite is uncontrolled, making overeating far more likely."
An Ongoing Disease?
Health authorities advise the jabs for people with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians argue that, considering the significant potential of weight regain, the treatment should be considered life-long.
This opinion is supported by drug manufacturers, who note that the results "emphasize the long-term nature of excess weight," similar to managing diseases like hypertension.
Patient Accounts
People who have come off the jabs report a intense return of hunger.
"It was like a switch activating and I was suddenly starving," described a patient.
The struggle is exacerbated if individuals have not adopted permanent lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Widespread Use
Survey data indicate that a significant number of people in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with demand being substantial.
- Adoption is higher among females than men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Finally, researchers caution that while these medications are potent agents for weight loss, they are not a standalone solution and maintained weight loss relies on ongoing behavioural support.
