Fresh analysis indicates that people who stop using blockbuster slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide tend to recover shed pounds at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop traditional lifestyle regimens.
Findings released in a prominent medical journal points out that while obese people often shed a large proportion of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the weight returns at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"People using such treatments must be cognizant of the potential of quick rebound weight gain when the therapy is stopped," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain implies a return to pre-treatment weight in about 18 months.
Weighing Treatments
The study, which examined 37 of trials involving thousands of participants, compared the effects of the injectable medications with other pills.
The team point out that individuals who lose weight through diet and exercise generally see a slower weight regain—around 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
The Reason for the Rapid Rebound
Experts suggest the way of the injections accounts for the accelerated regain.
GLP-1 drugs copy a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 levels several times higher than normal might result in the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and could reduce responsiveness to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Discontinuation of this medication leads to hunger is uncontrolled, making binge eating much more probable."
An Ongoing Condition?
Medical guidelines advise the jabs for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts contend that, considering the high risk of weight regain, the treatment should be considered ongoing.
This perspective is supported by drug manufacturers, who note that the findings "emphasize the chronic character of excess weight," akin to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Testimonies
People who have discontinued the jabs explain a powerful resurgence of hunger.
"It was like a switch activating and you're instantly extremely hungry," recalled a patient.
This challenge is compounded if patients have not adopted sustainable dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Significant Adoption
Survey data indicate that a significant number of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with demand remaining high.
- Adoption is more common among women compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Ultimately, researchers stress that while the jabs are powerful tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent solution and lasting health benefits relies on ongoing lifestyle support.
