New research reveals that individuals who stop using new slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide may regain reduced body mass far faster than those who halt conventional lifestyle plans.
Published data in a major medical journal demonstrates that while overweight people can lose about a fifth of their total mass while using the jabs, the weight comes back at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Individuals using these treatments must be informed of the potential of rapid rebound weight gain when the treatment is stopped," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery suggests a return to starting weight in about a year and a half.
Weighing Approaches
The study, which reviewed 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the effects of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
Scientists point out that people who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone generally have a slower creep back—around 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Understanding the Quick Regain
Experts suggest the mechanism of the injections explains the heightened rebound.
The injections imitate a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate hunger.
"Artificially providing the hormone concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production might result in the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also diminish responsiveness to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement results in hunger is uncontrolled, making overeating a significant risk."
An Ongoing Condition?
Health authorities suggest the injections for people with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Many experts say that, due to the significant potential of weight regain, the therapy is often long-term.
This view is supported by drug manufacturers, who state that the results "highlight the long-term character of excess weight," comparing it to managing conditions like diabetes.
User Testimonies
Users who have stopped the medication report a intense return of cravings.
"It was like a switch activating and you're instantly starving," recalled an individual.
This challenge is exacerbated if individuals have not adopted permanent lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Growing Adoption
Figures indicate that millions of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with desire continuing to grow.
- Use is greater among women compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
In conclusion, experts stress that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful tools for shedding pounds, they are not a magic cure and maintained weight loss likely depends on ongoing behavioural support.
