A recent study reveals that patients who stop using popular slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide may regain lost weight at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop traditional lifestyle regimens.
Published data in a major medical journal demonstrates that while obese people frequently drop about a fifth of their body weight while using the jabs, the mass is regained at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"People using such treatments must be aware of the danger of rapid weight regain when the medication ends," stated researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain implies a return to pre-treatment weight in about one and a half years.
Comparing Treatments
The research, which reviewed dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the outcomes of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
The team note that people who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone typically see a slower creep back—approximately 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
Explaining the Quick Regain
Nutrition scientists believe the way of the injections is key to understanding the heightened regain.
The injections copy a natural hormone called GLP-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 concentrations far above than normal might result in the body to produce less of its own natural hormone, and may also diminish sensitivity to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Withdrawal of this GLP-1 'fix' results in hunger is no longer kept in check, making binge eating far more likely."
An Ongoing Issue?
Medical guidelines advise the injections for people with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals argue that, considering the significant potential of weight regain, the therapy might need to be long-term.
This view is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the results "emphasize the long-term character of excess weight," similar to managing diseases like hypertension.
User Testimonies
Individuals who have come off the jabs report a powerful resurgence of appetite.
"I experienced a trigger activating and I was suddenly extremely hungry," recalled one woman.
This challenge is worsened if individuals have not established permanent dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Growing Use
Figures indicate that a significant number of people in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with interest being substantial.
- Use is more common among females compared to males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- Many obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Ultimately, researchers caution that while these medications are powerful agents for weight loss, they are not a magic solution and lasting health benefits hinges on integrated lifestyle management.