New research suggests that people who discontinue blockbuster slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on reduced body mass at a significantly accelerated pace than those who halt conventional diet and exercise regimens.
Findings released in a leading medical journal points out that while overweight people often shed a large proportion of their total mass while using the jabs, the mass returns at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"People purchasing these drugs should be aware of the risk of fast rebound weight gain when the therapy is stopped," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery suggests a reversion to pre-treatment weight within about a year and a half.
Analyzing Treatments
The research, which looked at dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the results of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
The team emphasize that individuals who lose weight through diet and exercise usually experience a slower weight regain—perhaps 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
The Reason for the Quick Rebound
Experts propose the mode of action of the drugs is key to understanding the accelerated weight return.
These medications copy a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 levels several times higher than the body's typical production could lead to the system to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also lessen sensitivity to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Discontinuation of this medication leads to appetite is no longer kept in check, making overeating far more likely."
An Ongoing Issue?
Health authorities suggest the injections for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals argue that, considering the high risk of relapse, the therapy should be considered life-long.
This opinion is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the results "emphasize the chronic character of obesity," akin to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Accounts
Users who have come off the jabs explain a powerful resurgence of hunger.
"I experienced a trigger flipping and you become extremely hungry," described a patient.
This challenge is compounded if patients have not adopted sustainable lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Growing Use
Survey data show that millions of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with desire continuing to grow.
- Use is higher among women compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- Many obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Ultimately, researchers stress that while these medications are powerful agents for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent fix and lasting health benefits likely depends on integrated lifestyle changes.
