A recent study suggests that people who discontinue popular slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on lost weight far faster than those who stop conventional diet and exercise programs.
Research printed in a prominent medical journal demonstrates that while overweight individuals can lose a large proportion of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the mass comes back at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"People using such drugs should be cognizant of the potential of rapid rebound weight gain when the treatment ends," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain suggests a reversion to starting weight within about 18 months.
Weighing Approaches
The study, which looked at 37 of trials involving thousands of participants, compared the results of GLP-1 agonists with older methods.
The team point out that individuals who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone generally have a slower weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
The Reason for the Rapid Rebound
Doctors suggest the way of the drugs explains the heightened rebound.
The injections mimic a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates hunger.
"Artificially providing the hormone concentrations several times higher than normal may cause the system to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and could diminish sensitivity to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Discontinuation of this medication results in appetite is uncontrolled, making overeating far more likely."
A Lifelong Condition?
Health authorities recommend the jabs for people with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Professionals argue that, given the likelihood of weight regain, the treatment should be considered long-term.
This perspective is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the findings "emphasize the persistent nature of excess weight," akin to managing conditions like hypertension.
Patient Testimonies
Individuals who have come off the medication describe a intense return of cravings.
"I experienced a switch flipping and you're instantly extremely hungry," said an individual.
This challenge is worsened if individuals have not established lasting lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Widespread Use
Figures indicate that a significant number of people in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with desire being substantial.
- Use is higher among females compared to men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Finally, researchers stress that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful agents for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone fix and maintained weight loss likely depends on ongoing behavioural management.
