Fresh analysis indicates that individuals who come off popular slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on shed pounds much more quickly than those who end conventional diet and exercise plans.
Findings released in a leading health publication points out that while obese people often shed a large proportion of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the weight comes back at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"People purchasing such drugs must be informed of the potential of fast weight regain when the treatment is stopped," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain suggests a reversion to original mass in about 18 months.
Analyzing Treatments
The analysis, which examined 37 of studies involving thousands of participants, compared the effects of GLP-1 agonists with other pills.
Researchers emphasize that people who lose weight through diet and exercise usually experience a more gradual creep back—approximately 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Understanding the Fast Rebound
Nutrition scientists suggest the mode of action of the drugs accounts for the heightened rebound.
These medications imitate a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 levels several times higher than the body's typical production may cause the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and may also reduce responsiveness to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement results in hunger is unsuppressed, making overeating a significant risk."
A Lifelong Issue?
Medical guidelines suggest the jabs for people with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians say that, considering the likelihood of weight regain, the treatment should be considered ongoing.
This view is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the findings "highlight the chronic nature of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
Patient Accounts
Individuals who have come off the medication report a intense resurgence of appetite.
"It was like a switch activating and you're instantly ravenous," said an individual.
This difficulty is exacerbated if individuals have not established sustainable lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Growing Adoption
Figures indicate that millions of people in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with desire remaining high.
- Adoption is greater among females compared to men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Finally, researchers caution that while the jabs are potent tools for weight loss, they are not a standalone cure and long-term success hinges on integrated behavioural management.
