Fresh analysis reveals that patients who come off popular slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide may regain shed pounds far faster than those who halt traditional diet and exercise plans.
Published data in a leading health publication shows that while obese individuals often shed substantial amounts of their total mass while using the jabs, the mass comes back at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Individuals buying such medications need to be informed of the potential of quick rebound weight gain when the medication concludes," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain suggests a reversion to pre-treatment weight within about one and a half years.
Weighing Treatments
The research, which reviewed 37 of trials involving thousands of participants, contrasted the results of these new drugs with other pills.
Researchers note that individuals who lose weight through dieting typically have a slower creep back—perhaps 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
Explaining the Rapid Regain
Nutrition scientists propose the way of the drugs accounts for the amplified weight return.
The injections imitate a natural hormone called GLP-1, which moderates appetite.
"Long-term administration of the hormone levels far above than the body's typical production could lead to the system to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and could lessen sensitivity to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement results in appetite is no longer kept in check, making overeating a significant risk."
An Ongoing Issue?
The NHS advise the jabs for people with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts say that, due to the high risk of weight regain, the treatment is often ongoing.
This opinion is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who note that the results "emphasize the chronic character of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
User Accounts
People who have stopped the jabs explain a sudden resurgence of cravings.
"It was like a switch flipping and I was suddenly ravenous," recalled an individual.
The struggle is exacerbated if individuals have not established permanent dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Significant Use
Recent estimates show that a significant number of people in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with interest continuing to grow.
- Adoption is higher among females compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Finally, experts stress that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful agents for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent solution and long-term success hinges on integrated lifestyle changes.
