New research indicates that people who stop using popular slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on shed pounds far faster than those who end conventional diet and exercise regimens.
Research printed in a major medical journal demonstrates that while overweight people can lose about a fifth of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the weight is regained at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"People buying these drugs must be informed of the risk of quick rebound weight gain when the treatment concludes," stated researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain implies a reversion to starting mass in about one and a half years.
Weighing Treatments
The analysis, which examined dozens of studies involving thousands of patients, contrasted the outcomes of GLP-1 agonists with conventional dieting.
Researchers point out that people who shed pounds through diet and exercise typically have a slower creep back—around 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
Understanding the Quick Rebound
Nutrition scientists suggest the mechanism of the drugs is key to understanding the accelerated regain.
These medications imitate a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone concentrations far above than normal might result in the system to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and could diminish sensitivity to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Discontinuation of this medication results in hunger is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating far more likely."
A Chronic Condition?
Medical guidelines suggest the injections for people with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
Professionals argue that, considering the likelihood of relapse, the therapy might need to be life-long.
This perspective is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who say that the results "highlight the persistent nature of excess weight," comparing it to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Testimonies
Individuals who have stopped the medication describe a intense resurgence of appetite.
"It was like something activating and you become starving," recalled an individual.
The struggle is compounded if users have not developed lasting dietary or behavioural modifications during treatment.
Significant Adoption
Figures show that a significant number of people in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with demand being substantial.
- Adoption is greater among women compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
In conclusion, researchers caution that while these medications are potent tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent solution and maintained weight loss relies on ongoing behavioural management.
