Fresh analysis indicates that people who discontinue popular slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on shed pounds much more quickly than those who halt conventional lifestyle programs.
Research printed in a leading medical journal shows that while overweight people frequently drop a large proportion of their body weight while using the jabs, the weight comes back at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"People using these medications must be cognizant of the risk of fast weight regain when the therapy is stopped," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery means a return to pre-treatment mass in about 18 months.
Analyzing Approaches
The study, which examined 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the results of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
Scientists emphasize that people who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone generally experience a less rapid creep back—approximately 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
The Reason for the Rapid Regain
Experts suggest the mechanism of the drugs explains the amplified regain.
These medications copy a natural hormone called GLP-1, which moderates appetite.
"Long-term administration of the hormone concentrations far above than normal could lead to the system to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and may also diminish sensitivity to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Withdrawal of this medication results in hunger is uncontrolled, making excessive eating much more probable."
A Chronic Issue?
Medical guidelines recommend the jabs for people with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals argue that, considering the high risk of weight regain, the treatment should be considered ongoing.
This perspective is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the results "emphasize the long-term character of excess weight," comparing it to managing conditions like hypertension.
Patient Experiences
People who have come off the jabs explain a intense resurgence of cravings.
"It felt as if a trigger flipping and you become starving," recalled a patient.
This difficulty is worsened if individuals have not adopted lasting lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Significant Adoption
Recent estimates show that millions of adults in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with desire continuing to grow.
- Use is higher among women compared to men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
In conclusion, researchers emphasize that while these medications are potent agents for shedding pounds, they are not a magic solution and maintained weight loss likely depends on integrated behavioural support.
