Fresh analysis suggests that patients who discontinue new slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide may regain shed pounds at a significantly accelerated pace than those who end conventional diet and exercise regimens.
Findings released in a prominent medical journal shows that while obese people can lose about a fifth of their total mass while on the medication, the mass comes back at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Individuals buying these drugs should be cognizant of the danger of quick weight regain when the medication is stopped," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain suggests a reversion to pre-treatment weight in about 18 months.
Weighing Treatments
The research, which reviewed dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the results of these new drugs with older methods.
Researchers emphasize that people who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone typically see a more gradual creep back—around 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Explaining the Fast Rebound
Doctors propose the mechanism of the injections is key to understanding the heightened rebound.
These medications imitate a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of the hormone concentrations several times higher than normal may cause the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and may also reduce sensitivity to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Withdrawal of this medication leads to hunger is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating far more likely."
A Lifelong Issue?
Health authorities recommend the injections for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians say that, considering the likelihood of weight regain, the treatment might need to be long-term.
This opinion is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who state that the findings "emphasize the chronic character of excess weight," similar to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
Patient Accounts
Users who have come off the medication describe a intense return of hunger.
"It felt as if something that goes on and I was suddenly starving," said one woman.
This difficulty is worsened if patients have not adopted lasting dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Significant Interest
Survey data suggest that millions of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with interest being substantial.
- Adoption is more common among women than males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Ultimately, researchers caution that while these medications are potent tools for shedding pounds, they are not a magic solution and maintained weight loss likely depends on integrated lifestyle management.
