A recent study indicates that individuals who discontinue new slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide tend to recover shed pounds much more quickly than those who halt traditional lifestyle programs.
Published data in a prominent medical journal shows that while obese people often shed substantial amounts of their body weight while using the jabs, the weight is regained at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"People purchasing such treatments must be informed of the potential of fast weight regain when the therapy ends," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery means a reversion to original mass within about 18 months.
Weighing Therapies
The study, which examined 37 of trials involving thousands of patients, compared the outcomes of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
Researchers emphasize that people who lose weight through diet and exercise usually see a less rapid creep back—perhaps 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
The Reason for the Fast Rebound
Doctors believe the mode of action of the drugs is key to understanding the heightened rebound.
These medications imitate a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of the hormone levels far above than normal could lead to the system to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also lessen sensitivity to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' results in hunger is no longer kept in check, making binge eating a significant risk."
A Lifelong Disease?
Health authorities suggest the jabs for people with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians argue that, due to the likelihood of relapse, the treatment should be considered ongoing.
This view is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the findings "emphasize the persistent nature of excess weight," akin to managing diseases like hypertension.
User Experiences
Individuals who have come off the medication report a powerful return of hunger.
"I experienced something that goes on and I was suddenly ravenous," said an individual.
This challenge is worsened if users have not adopted permanent dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Widespread Interest
Recent estimates indicate that a significant number of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with desire being substantial.
- Use is more common among females than males.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many access the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Finally, clinicians stress that while these medications are powerful tools for shedding pounds, they are not a magic fix and long-term success relies on combined lifestyle changes.
