A recent study indicates that individuals who stop using popular slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide may regain shed pounds much more quickly than those who end traditional diet and exercise programs.
Research printed in a prominent medical journal shows that while overweight people often shed about a fifth of their total mass while on the medication, the mass comes back at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Users buying these drugs need to be informed of the potential of quick weight regain when the therapy ends," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain means a reversion to original weight in about one and a half years.
Analyzing Treatments
The research, which looked at dozens of trials involving thousands of patients, contrasted the effects of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
The team emphasize that individuals who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone usually experience a slower creep back—around 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
The Reason for the Quick Regain
Experts believe the mechanism of the drugs explains the accelerated rebound.
The injections mimic a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of the hormone levels far above than normal could lead to the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and could diminish sensitivity to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement means hunger is uncontrolled, making excessive eating far more likely."
A Chronic Condition?
The NHS advise the jabs for individuals with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
Professionals argue that, considering the high risk of weight regain, the therapy should be considered life-long.
This view is echoed by drug manufacturers, who state that the findings "emphasize the chronic character of obesity," comparing it to managing conditions like diabetes.
Patient Experiences
People who have stopped the medication report a intense return of appetite.
"I experienced a trigger activating and you become starving," recalled a patient.
This difficulty is worsened if users have not developed lasting lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Growing Adoption
Figures suggest that a significant number of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with interest being substantial.
- Adoption is higher among women than males.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest usage rates.
- Many obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, researchers stress that while GLP-1 drugs are potent tools for weight loss, they are not a magic cure and long-term success hinges on ongoing lifestyle changes.
