New research indicates that people who stop using popular slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide may regain shed pounds much more quickly than those who halt traditional diet and exercise programs.
Published data in a leading medical journal shows that while obese individuals can lose substantial amounts of their body weight while using the jabs, the weight comes back at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Users purchasing these medications need to be aware of the risk of fast weight regain when the therapy concludes," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery implies a return to original mass in about 18 months.
Comparing Therapies
The research, which looked at 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the outcomes of GLP-1 agonists with older methods.
Researchers point out that individuals who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone usually see a slower creep back—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
The Reason for the Quick Regain
Nutrition scientists propose the mechanism of the injections explains the accelerated weight return.
GLP-1 drugs copy a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 concentrations far above than the body's typical production may cause the body to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and may also lessen responsiveness to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement means appetite is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating much more probable."
An Ongoing Condition?
Medical guidelines suggest the jabs for individuals with obesity-related health risks, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals argue that, given the significant potential of weight regain, the therapy might need to be ongoing.
This perspective is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the findings "highlight the persistent nature of obesity," similar to managing conditions like diabetes.
Patient Experiences
Individuals who have discontinued the jabs report a intense resurgence of hunger.
"It felt as if a switch that goes on and I was suddenly ravenous," said an individual.
This difficulty is compounded if individuals have not established sustainable lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Significant Use
Survey data suggest that a significant number of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with interest continuing to grow.
- Adoption is higher among females compared to men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion access the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, researchers stress that while the jabs are potent tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent fix and long-term success hinges on ongoing behavioural management.
