A recent study suggests that people who discontinue new slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide may regain reduced body mass much more quickly than those who stop conventional diet and exercise regimens.
Findings released in a leading medical journal demonstrates that while overweight people frequently drop about a fifth of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the mass comes back at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"People using such treatments should be cognizant of the risk of rapid rebound weight gain when the medication is stopped," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery means a reversion to starting weight within about a year and a half.
Weighing Therapies
The study, which looked at dozens of studies involving thousands of participants, contrasted the results of these new drugs with older methods.
The team note that individuals who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone typically see a more gradual weight regain—around 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
The Reason for the Rapid Rebound
Experts propose the mechanism of the injections is key to understanding the heightened rebound.
These medications imitate a natural hormone called GLP-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone levels far above than the body's typical production could lead to the system to produce less of its own natural hormone, and could lessen sensitivity to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Stopping of this medication means appetite is unsuppressed, making overeating a significant risk."
A Chronic Disease?
Medical guidelines advise the injections for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians say that, considering the likelihood of weight regain, the treatment is often long-term.
This view is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the results "emphasize the long-term character of excess weight," comparing it to managing diseases like hypertension.
User Experiences
Users who have discontinued the jabs explain a powerful return of hunger.
"It was like something activating and you're instantly extremely hungry," said a patient.
The struggle is compounded if users have not adopted permanent dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Significant Interest
Recent estimates show that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with interest remaining high.
- Use is greater among females compared to men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion access the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
In conclusion, researchers caution that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful tools for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone fix and maintained weight loss hinges on combined lifestyle management.
