New research reveals that people who come off new slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on lost weight far faster than those who halt traditional diet and exercise regimens.
Findings released in a leading medical journal shows that while obese people often shed a large proportion of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the weight is regained at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"People buying such drugs must be cognizant of the risk of fast rebound weight gain when the therapy is stopped," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery means a reversion to starting weight within about 18 months.
Analyzing Treatments
The analysis, which looked at dozens of studies involving thousands of participants, contrasted the outcomes of these new drugs with older methods.
The team emphasize that individuals who shed pounds through dieting generally have a more gradual weight regain—approximately 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
The Reason for the Fast Regain
Experts propose the mode of action of the drugs is key to understanding the accelerated weight return.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing the hormone concentrations far above than the body's typical production could lead to the system to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and may also lessen responsiveness to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement leads to appetite is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating much more probable."
A Lifelong Condition?
Medical guidelines advise the jabs for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians argue that, given the likelihood of relapse, the treatment might need to be life-long.
This perspective is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the findings "highlight the persistent character of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
User Accounts
Individuals who have come off the jabs report a sudden return of cravings.
"I experienced a switch that goes on and you're instantly ravenous," described an individual.
This difficulty is worsened if users have not adopted lasting dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Growing Adoption
Figures indicate that millions of people in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with demand continuing to grow.
- Use is higher among women compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Ultimately, researchers emphasize that while GLP-1 drugs are potent agents for weight loss, they are not a standalone cure and maintained weight loss likely depends on ongoing behavioural changes.
