A recent study suggests that individuals who stop using popular slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide tend to recover lost weight at a significantly accelerated pace than those who halt conventional diet and exercise regimens.
Findings released in a leading health publication demonstrates that while obese individuals often shed a large proportion of their total mass while on the medication, the weight returns at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Users buying these drugs should be informed of the danger of fast rebound weight gain when the treatment is stopped," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery suggests a reversion to starting weight in about 18 months.
Analyzing Approaches
The research, which looked at dozens of trials involving thousands of participants, compared the outcomes of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
The team emphasize that individuals who lose weight through dieting usually see a slower creep back—around 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
Explaining the Rapid Regain
Nutrition scientists believe the mode of action of the drugs explains the accelerated regain.
These medications mimic a natural hormone called GLP-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone concentrations several times higher than normal could lead to the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and could reduce responsiveness to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Stopping of this medication results in hunger is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating a significant risk."
A Chronic Disease?
Health authorities recommend the injections for people with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians say that, due to the high risk of weight regain, the therapy might need to be long-term.
This view is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the results "highlight the long-term character of obesity," similar to managing conditions like diabetes.
User Experiences
People who have discontinued the medication explain a powerful return of hunger.
"I experienced a trigger that goes on and I was suddenly starving," recalled a patient.
The struggle is worsened if individuals have not adopted sustainable dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Widespread Interest
Survey data show that millions of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with interest being substantial.
- Adoption is greater among females compared to males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- Many obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, researchers caution that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful agents for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone cure and maintained weight loss hinges on ongoing behavioural management.
