Fresh analysis suggests that patients who come off popular slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide may regain reduced body mass much more quickly than those who halt traditional diet and exercise regimens.
Research printed in a prominent medical journal shows that while overweight people often shed about a fifth of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the weight comes back at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Users using such treatments need to be aware of the potential of fast rebound weight gain when the therapy is stopped," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery implies a return to original mass within about one and a half years.
Weighing Approaches
The analysis, which looked at 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the outcomes of GLP-1 agonists with conventional dieting.
Researchers note that individuals who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone usually see a more gradual weight regain—around 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
Explaining the Fast Rebound
Doctors believe the mechanism of the jabs explains the amplified rebound.
The injections copy a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate hunger.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 concentrations far above than normal might result in the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and could diminish sensitivity to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement results in appetite is uncontrolled, making overeating much more probable."
A Chronic Disease?
The NHS recommend the injections for people with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
Professionals argue that, given the likelihood of weight regain, the treatment might need to be life-long.
This opinion is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the findings "emphasize the long-term nature of excess weight," akin to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
User Testimonies
Users who have come off the jabs describe a powerful return of hunger.
"It was like something that goes on and I was suddenly ravenous," said a patient.
This difficulty is exacerbated if patients have not adopted sustainable lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Widespread Adoption
Survey data indicate that a significant number of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with desire continuing to grow.
- Adoption is higher among females than men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, experts caution that while these medications are powerful agents for shedding pounds, they are not a magic fix and long-term success hinges on combined behavioural changes.
