A recent study suggests that people who come off blockbuster slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on lost weight far faster than those who halt conventional diet and exercise plans.
Published data in a leading medical journal points out that while overweight individuals often shed a large proportion of their total mass while using the jabs, the mass is regained at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Users buying these treatments should be cognizant of the risk of quick weight regain when the medication concludes," stated lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery implies a reversion to pre-treatment weight in about a year and a half.
Weighing Treatments
The analysis, which reviewed dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the results of GLP-1 agonists with older methods.
Scientists emphasize that individuals who shed pounds through dieting typically have a slower creep back—around 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
The Reason for the Quick Rebound
Experts propose the mode of action of the drugs accounts for the heightened weight return.
The injections copy a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates appetite.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 levels far above than normal might result in the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and may also reduce responsiveness to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Discontinuation of this medication results in appetite is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating much more probable."
A Chronic Disease?
Medical guidelines suggest the jabs for people with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts say that, due to the high risk of relapse, the therapy is often long-term.
This view is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the results "emphasize the chronic nature of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like diabetes.
Patient Testimonies
Users who have come off the jabs describe a powerful return of cravings.
"I experienced a trigger flipping and I was suddenly starving," described a patient.
This difficulty is compounded if individuals have not established sustainable dietary or behavioural modifications during treatment.
Significant Adoption
Survey data suggest that a significant number of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with demand remaining high.
- Adoption is more common among women than males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many access the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Finally, experts caution that while these medications are potent agents for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent solution and long-term success hinges on ongoing behavioural changes.
