A recent study suggests that people who come off popular slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide may regain lost weight far faster than those who end traditional diet and exercise programs.
Published data in a leading medical journal shows that while obese people frequently drop about a fifth of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the weight returns at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Users buying such medications need to be cognizant of the risk of fast weight regain when the medication concludes," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery suggests a return to starting mass within about one and a half years.
Weighing Therapies
The research, which reviewed 37 of trials involving thousands of patients, compared the results of the injectable medications with other pills.
Scientists point out that individuals who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone typically have a less rapid weight regain—approximately 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
Understanding the Fast Rebound
Doctors suggest the way of the drugs explains the amplified weight return.
The injections mimic a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate hunger.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than normal could lead to the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and may also diminish sensitivity to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement results in hunger is uncontrolled, making binge eating much more probable."
A Lifelong Disease?
The NHS advise the jabs for people with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians say that, due to the likelihood of weight regain, the therapy should be considered long-term.
This perspective is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the results "emphasize the persistent character of excess weight," akin to managing conditions like diabetes.
Patient Accounts
Users who have come off the medication explain a sudden return of appetite.
"It felt as if something activating and you're instantly ravenous," described an individual.
This difficulty is compounded if individuals have not adopted permanent lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Growing Adoption
Survey data suggest that a significant number of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with desire remaining high.
- Adoption is more common among females compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- Many access the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, clinicians caution that while the jabs are potent tools for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone fix and lasting health benefits likely depends on combined behavioural support.
