New research indicates that patients who discontinue popular slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on shed pounds at a significantly accelerated pace than those who end traditional diet and exercise plans.
Research printed in a leading health publication shows that while overweight individuals can lose about a fifth of their total mass while using the jabs, the mass is regained at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Users using such drugs need to be aware of the potential of quick weight regain when the medication is stopped," stated researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery means a return to starting weight within about one and a half years.
Weighing Approaches
The research, which reviewed 37 of trials involving thousands of participants, compared the outcomes of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
Scientists point out that individuals who lose weight through dieting typically see a slower weight regain—around 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
Understanding the Fast Regain
Experts propose the mode of action of the drugs explains the heightened regain.
These medications mimic a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls appetite.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 concentrations far above than the body's typical production could lead to the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and may also diminish responsiveness to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement means appetite is uncontrolled, making excessive eating much more probable."
An Ongoing Issue?
Medical guidelines recommend the injections for individuals with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals say that, due to the likelihood of weight regain, the therapy might need to be ongoing.
This perspective is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the findings "emphasize the persistent nature of excess weight," comparing it to managing conditions like hypertension.
Patient Accounts
People who have stopped the medication report a intense resurgence of cravings.
"It was like something activating and you're instantly ravenous," said a patient.
This difficulty is worsened if patients have not established sustainable lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Growing Interest
Survey data suggest that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with interest remaining high.
- Use is more common among females compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest level of interest.
- Many obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Finally, clinicians caution that while GLP-1 drugs are effective tools for weight loss, they are not a magic solution and lasting health benefits likely depends on combined behavioural changes.
