Fresh analysis suggests that people who come off popular slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide may regain reduced body mass far faster than those who halt traditional diet and exercise programs.
Research printed in a major medical journal points out that while obese individuals often shed substantial amounts of their total mass while using the jabs, the mass comes back at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Individuals buying these drugs need to be cognizant of the risk of rapid weight regain when the therapy ends," stated lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain means a return to pre-treatment weight within about 18 months.
Comparing Treatments
The research, which looked at 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the outcomes of the injectable medications with older methods.
Scientists note that people who lose weight through dieting usually have a slower weight regain—perhaps 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
Explaining the Quick Rebound
Experts believe the mode of action of the jabs is key to understanding the heightened regain.
These medications imitate a natural hormone called GLP-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone concentrations several times higher than normal may cause the system to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and could lessen responsiveness to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Withdrawal of this GLP-1 'fix' means hunger is uncontrolled, making excessive eating far more likely."
An Ongoing Disease?
The NHS suggest the jabs for people with obesity-related health risks, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
Many experts argue that, given the high risk of weight regain, the therapy might need to be life-long.
This view is supported by drug manufacturers, who note that the findings "emphasize the persistent nature of excess weight," akin to managing conditions like diabetes.
User Accounts
Users who have discontinued the jabs report a powerful resurgence of appetite.
"It felt as if a switch flipping and you're instantly extremely hungry," described a patient.
This difficulty is compounded if users have not developed permanent lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Significant Interest
Figures indicate that millions of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with demand being substantial.
- Adoption is more common among females compared to males.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion access the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, experts caution that while the jabs are potent tools for weight loss, they are not a standalone cure and maintained weight loss likely depends on ongoing behavioural changes.
