New research suggests that individuals who come off popular slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on lost weight at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop conventional lifestyle regimens.
Findings released in a prominent health publication points out that while obese individuals often shed about a fifth of their total mass while on the medication, the mass comes back at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Users using such drugs need to be informed of the potential of quick rebound weight gain when the medication concludes," stated lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain suggests a return to original mass within about 18 months.
Weighing Treatments
The study, which reviewed dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the results of GLP-1 agonists with other pills.
The team point out that individuals who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone generally have a more gradual creep back—around 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
The Reason for the Fast Regain
Experts suggest the mechanism of the injections accounts for the accelerated weight return.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing the hormone concentrations far above than normal may cause the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and could diminish sensitivity to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement means appetite is uncontrolled, making excessive eating a significant risk."
An Ongoing Disease?
Health authorities suggest the injections for people with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Professionals contend that, given the high risk of weight regain, the therapy might need to be life-long.
This opinion is supported by drug manufacturers, who say that the results "highlight the persistent character of obesity," comparing it to managing conditions like hypertension.
User Accounts
Individuals who have stopped the medication explain a powerful return of hunger.
"It was like a trigger flipping and you become starving," said one woman.
The struggle is worsened if individuals have not adopted permanent lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Significant Adoption
Figures show that millions of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with demand remaining high.
- Adoption is greater among females than men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, clinicians emphasize that while these medications are powerful tools for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent solution and maintained weight loss relies on integrated lifestyle management.
