Fresh analysis indicates that individuals who come off popular slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on lost weight far faster than those who stop traditional lifestyle plans.
Research printed in a major medical journal points out that while obese individuals often shed about a fifth of their total mass while on the medication, the weight is regained at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Users buying these drugs need to be aware of the risk of quick weight regain when the therapy ends," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain suggests a reversion to original mass in about a year and a half.
Weighing Approaches
The study, which examined 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the effects of the injectable medications with older methods.
Scientists point out that people who shed pounds through dieting typically experience a slower weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
The Reason for the Rapid Regain
Experts suggest the mode of action of the injections explains the amplified weight return.
The injections copy a natural hormone called GLP-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of the hormone concentrations far above than normal might result in the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and may also lessen responsiveness to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Discontinuation of this GLP-1 'fix' results in hunger is uncontrolled, making excessive eating far more likely."
An Ongoing Condition?
The NHS suggest the jabs for people with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts argue that, considering the high risk of relapse, the therapy is often ongoing.
This perspective is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who state that the results "highlight the chronic character of excess weight," similar to managing diseases like diabetes.
User Experiences
People who have stopped the jabs explain a intense return of appetite.
"It was like a switch flipping and you're instantly extremely hungry," said an individual.
The struggle is exacerbated if patients have not developed sustainable dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Significant Interest
Figures indicate that a significant number of adults in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with interest continuing to grow.
- Adoption is higher among females compared to men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many access the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
In conclusion, clinicians caution that while these medications are potent tools for weight loss, they are not a magic cure and lasting health benefits likely depends on integrated lifestyle changes.
