A recent study suggests that individuals who come off new slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide may regain lost weight at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop traditional diet and exercise plans.
Findings released in a prominent medical journal shows that while obese people often shed about a fifth of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the weight returns at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Individuals using these treatments should be aware of the potential of fast weight regain when the therapy is stopped," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery means a return to starting weight in about one and a half years.
Comparing Approaches
The research, which examined 37 of studies involving thousands of patients, contrasted the outcomes of the injectable medications with other pills.
The team point out that individuals who lose weight through dieting generally have a slower weight regain—around 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
Understanding the Rapid Regain
Doctors suggest the way of the injections accounts for the accelerated weight return.
The injections copy a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls appetite.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than normal may cause the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and may also reduce responsiveness to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Withdrawal of this GLP-1 'fix' leads to hunger is unsuppressed, making binge eating far more likely."
A Lifelong Condition?
Health authorities recommend the jabs for people with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians argue that, given the high risk of weight regain, the treatment should be considered long-term.
This opinion is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who state that the findings "underscore the chronic nature of obesity," comparing it to managing diseases like hypertension.
User Testimonies
Users who have come off the jabs explain a intense return of hunger.
"It was like a switch flipping and you're instantly ravenous," said a patient.
This difficulty is worsened if patients have not developed permanent lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Widespread Interest
Recent estimates show that a significant number of people in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with desire continuing to grow.
- Use is more common among women compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, clinicians caution that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful agents for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone cure and lasting health benefits hinges on combined lifestyle changes.
