New research indicates that people who come off new slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide may regain reduced body mass much more quickly than those who end traditional lifestyle regimens.
Published data in a leading medical journal points out that while overweight people can lose about a fifth of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the mass comes back at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"People purchasing these medications should be cognizant of the potential of quick weight regain when the medication is stopped," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain suggests a return to original mass in about one and a half years.
Analyzing Treatments
The study, which examined dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the effects of the injectable medications with other pills.
Scientists emphasize that individuals who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone generally experience a less rapid weight regain—perhaps 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
The Reason for the Rapid Regain
Doctors suggest the mode of action of the injections accounts for the amplified rebound.
The injections mimic a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone levels several times higher than the body's typical production could lead to the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and may also reduce responsiveness to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Withdrawal of this GLP-1 'fix' means hunger is uncontrolled, making overeating a significant risk."
A Lifelong Disease?
Health authorities recommend the jabs for people with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts argue that, considering the significant potential of relapse, the treatment should be considered ongoing.
This perspective is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the findings "highlight the chronic nature of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like hypertension.
User Accounts
People who have discontinued the jabs report a sudden return of appetite.
"It felt as if a switch that goes on and you're instantly ravenous," said an individual.
This difficulty is worsened if users have not adopted permanent lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Growing Adoption
Figures indicate that millions of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with desire being substantial.
- Use is higher among women compared to males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
In conclusion, experts stress that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful tools for weight loss, they are not a magic cure and maintained weight loss relies on combined lifestyle changes.
