Fresh analysis suggests that people who discontinue blockbuster slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on shed pounds far faster than those who halt conventional diet and exercise programs.
Findings released in a prominent health publication points out that while overweight individuals can lose a large proportion of their total mass while on the medication, the mass returns at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Users purchasing such drugs need to be aware of the potential of rapid rebound weight gain when the therapy concludes," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain means a reversion to starting mass in about one and a half years.
Comparing Therapies
The study, which reviewed dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the results of GLP-1 agonists with conventional dieting.
Scientists point out that individuals who shed pounds through dieting typically experience a less rapid creep back—around 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
The Reason for the Quick Regain
Nutrition scientists propose the way of the injections explains the accelerated weight return.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates appetite.
"Artificially providing the hormone levels far above than the body's typical production could lead to the system to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and could lessen sensitivity to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement leads to hunger is uncontrolled, making excessive eating a significant risk."
An Ongoing Issue?
The NHS advise the injections for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
Professionals argue that, given the likelihood of relapse, the therapy should be considered ongoing.
This perspective is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who say that the findings "highlight the persistent character of obesity," comparing it to managing diseases like diabetes.
User Experiences
Users who have discontinued the medication describe a sudden resurgence of appetite.
"It felt as if a switch flipping and I was suddenly ravenous," described a patient.
The struggle is worsened if individuals have not developed sustainable lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Growing Interest
Figures indicate that a significant number of adults in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with desire being substantial.
- Adoption is greater among females than men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Finally, researchers emphasize that while these medications are powerful agents for weight loss, they are not a permanent fix and long-term success relies on integrated behavioural changes.
