A recent study indicates that patients who stop using popular slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide may regain shed pounds much more quickly than those who end conventional lifestyle regimens.
Findings released in a leading health publication points out that while overweight people often shed about a fifth of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the mass returns at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Users purchasing these medications should be aware of the risk of quick weight regain when the treatment concludes," stated lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery means a return to pre-treatment weight in about one and a half years.
Analyzing Approaches
The study, which reviewed 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the results of the injectable medications with older methods.
The team note that individuals who lose weight through diet and exercise generally experience a more gradual weight regain—perhaps 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
Understanding the Quick Rebound
Doctors believe the way of the jabs explains the heightened regain.
The injections imitate a natural hormone called GLP-1, which moderates hunger.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone levels far above than the body's typical production might result in the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and may also diminish sensitivity to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement results in appetite is unsuppressed, making overeating much more probable."
An Ongoing Condition?
Medical guidelines advise the injections for individuals with obesity-related health risks, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians argue that, considering the high risk of weight regain, the therapy might need to be long-term.
This perspective is echoed by drug manufacturers, who state that the results "highlight the chronic nature of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
Patient Accounts
People who have stopped the jabs report a sudden resurgence of cravings.
"I experienced a trigger flipping and you become ravenous," said one woman.
The struggle is compounded if patients have not developed sustainable dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Significant Use
Survey data indicate that millions of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with desire continuing to grow.
- Adoption is more common among women than men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many access the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Ultimately, clinicians caution that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful agents for weight loss, they are not a permanent cure and maintained weight loss likely depends on integrated behavioural changes.
