A recent study reveals that individuals who come off popular slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide tend to recover reduced body mass much more quickly than those who halt conventional lifestyle programs.
Findings released in a major medical journal shows that while obese individuals can lose a large proportion of their body weight while using the jabs, the mass is regained at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"Individuals using such medications should be aware of the potential of rapid rebound weight gain when the medication ends," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery suggests a reversion to original weight within about a year and a half.
Comparing Treatments
The analysis, which reviewed dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the effects of GLP-1 agonists with conventional dieting.
Scientists emphasize that people who lose weight through dieting generally see a less rapid weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
The Reason for the Fast Regain
Nutrition scientists propose the way of the injections explains the amplified regain.
These medications copy a natural hormone called GLP-1, which moderates appetite.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 concentrations far above than the body's typical production might result in the system to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and could reduce sensitivity to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement leads to appetite is unsuppressed, making excessive eating far more likely."
A Lifelong Condition?
Health authorities recommend the jabs for people with weight-linked health risks, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals say that, given the high risk of weight regain, the treatment might need to be ongoing.
This perspective is supported by drug manufacturers, who state that the results "highlight the persistent character of excess weight," akin to managing diseases like hypertension.
User Accounts
Users who have discontinued the medication report a intense resurgence of hunger.
"It was like a trigger activating and I was suddenly extremely hungry," recalled an individual.
This difficulty is exacerbated if individuals have not adopted lasting lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Growing Interest
Recent estimates suggest that a significant number of adults in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with demand being substantial.
- Adoption is greater among females than males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, experts emphasize that while GLP-1 drugs are effective agents for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent cure and maintained weight loss likely depends on combined behavioural management.
