New research suggests that patients who come off popular slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide may regain reduced body mass far faster than those who halt conventional diet and exercise programs.
Findings released in a prominent medical journal points out that while obese individuals can lose about a fifth of their body weight while using the jabs, the mass comes back at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"Users purchasing these treatments must be aware of the danger of fast rebound weight gain when the therapy is stopped," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery means a return to starting mass within about a year and a half.
Analyzing Treatments
The analysis, which looked at 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the outcomes of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
Researchers emphasize that individuals who shed pounds through dieting typically have a slower creep back—approximately 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
Explaining the Fast Regain
Doctors believe the mode of action of the drugs is key to understanding the accelerated regain.
The injections imitate a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing the hormone levels far above than the body's typical production may cause the body to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and may also reduce sensitivity to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement results in hunger is unsuppressed, making overeating a significant risk."
A Lifelong Disease?
Health authorities advise the injections for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts contend that, given the significant potential of weight regain, the therapy might need to be life-long.
This opinion is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who state that the results "underscore the chronic character of excess weight," comparing it to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Testimonies
Individuals who have stopped the jabs report a sudden resurgence of cravings.
"It felt as if something activating and you're instantly ravenous," recalled one woman.
The struggle is exacerbated if patients have not adopted lasting dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Widespread Adoption
Recent estimates show that millions of adults in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with demand being substantial.
- Adoption is greater among women than men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Finally, clinicians caution that while the jabs are powerful tools for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent solution and lasting health benefits relies on integrated behavioural changes.
