A recent study reveals that patients who come off popular slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide may regain lost weight much more quickly than those who stop traditional lifestyle regimens.
Published data in a leading health publication points out that while overweight people can lose substantial amounts of their total mass while using the jabs, the mass is regained at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Individuals buying these treatments should be informed of the potential of fast rebound weight gain when the therapy is stopped," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery means a reversion to starting mass in about 18 months.
Comparing Approaches
The analysis, which examined 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the effects of GLP-1 agonists with older methods.
The team point out that individuals who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone generally have a slower weight regain—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
The Reason for the Quick Rebound
Nutrition scientists propose the mode of action of the drugs explains the amplified weight return.
The injections copy a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone concentrations far above than the body's typical production could lead to the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and could diminish responsiveness to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Discontinuation of this medication leads to hunger is no longer kept in check, making overeating much more probable."
A Lifelong Issue?
The NHS recommend the jabs for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals contend that, considering the high risk of weight regain, the treatment might need to be life-long.
This view is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who note that the findings "underscore the long-term nature of excess weight," comparing it to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
Patient Accounts
People who have come off the medication explain a sudden return of cravings.
"It felt as if something that goes on and you become extremely hungry," recalled an individual.
The struggle is worsened if individuals have not adopted permanent lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Widespread Interest
Survey data show that a significant number of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with desire being substantial.
- Use is higher among females compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many access the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Finally, researchers stress that while these medications are effective tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent fix and long-term success likely depends on ongoing behavioural changes.
