Fresh analysis reveals that individuals who stop using new slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide may regain reduced body mass at a significantly accelerated pace than those who halt traditional diet and exercise programs.
Findings released in a major health publication points out that while overweight individuals can lose about a fifth of their total mass while using the jabs, the weight is regained at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"People using such medications need to be cognizant of the risk of fast weight regain when the therapy concludes," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery implies a reversion to original mass within about 18 months.
Weighing Approaches
The study, which looked at dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the outcomes of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
The team point out that individuals who shed pounds through diet and exercise generally have a slower creep back—approximately 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
The Reason for the Fast Regain
Experts suggest the mechanism of the drugs accounts for the heightened weight return.
The injections copy a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 levels far above than the body's typical production might result in the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and may also lessen sensitivity to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Withdrawal of this medication results in hunger is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating far more likely."
An Ongoing Issue?
The NHS recommend the jabs for people with obesity-related health risks, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
Many experts say that, due to the high risk of relapse, the treatment should be considered long-term.
This view is supported by drug manufacturers, who state that the findings "underscore the chronic character of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like diabetes.
Patient Testimonies
Individuals who have discontinued the medication report a powerful resurgence of cravings.
"I experienced a trigger activating and you're instantly extremely hungry," said a patient.
This difficulty is worsened if patients have not adopted sustainable lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Significant Use
Recent estimates indicate that millions of adults in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with desire remaining high.
- Adoption is greater among females than men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Finally, researchers stress that while these medications are potent agents for shedding pounds, they are not a magic solution and maintained weight loss likely depends on ongoing behavioural changes.
