A recent study suggests that people who discontinue new slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide may regain shed pounds at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop conventional diet and exercise regimens.
Research printed in a major medical journal points out that while overweight people can lose a large proportion of their total mass while on the medication, the mass returns at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Individuals purchasing such medications should be cognizant of the potential of rapid rebound weight gain when the medication is stopped," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery suggests a reversion to original weight in about one and a half years.
Comparing Therapies
The study, which examined 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the effects of GLP-1 agonists with older methods.
Scientists point out that individuals who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone generally experience a slower creep back—around 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
The Reason for the Rapid Rebound
Experts suggest the way of the injections explains the accelerated regain.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a natural hormone called GLP-1, which moderates hunger.
"Long-term administration of the hormone levels several times higher than the body's typical production could lead to the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and could lessen responsiveness to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement results in appetite is no longer kept in check, making overeating much more probable."
An Ongoing Condition?
The NHS suggest the jabs for people with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Many experts say that, due to the high risk of relapse, the treatment is often ongoing.
This view is supported by drug manufacturers, who state that the findings "emphasize the chronic nature of excess weight," akin to managing diseases like hypertension.
Patient Experiences
Individuals who have discontinued the medication explain a intense return of appetite.
"I experienced something that goes on and you're instantly starving," recalled one woman.
This difficulty is worsened if individuals have not adopted lasting dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Growing Adoption
Recent estimates indicate that millions of adults in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with demand being substantial.
- Adoption is greater among females compared to men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Finally, researchers caution that while the jabs are potent agents for weight loss, they are not a permanent cure and lasting health benefits likely depends on ongoing lifestyle management.
