A recent study reveals that patients who stop using popular slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide tend to recover lost weight at a significantly accelerated pace than those who end traditional lifestyle plans.
Findings released in a leading medical journal demonstrates that while obese individuals frequently drop substantial amounts of their body weight while on the medication, the weight returns at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Individuals purchasing these drugs should be informed of the danger of rapid weight regain when the medication is stopped," stated researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery means a reversion to starting weight in about 18 months.
Weighing Treatments
The study, which reviewed dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the effects of the injectable medications with other pills.
Scientists point out that individuals who lose weight through dieting typically have a less rapid creep back—approximately 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
Explaining the Fast Regain
Doctors believe the mechanism of the injections is key to understanding the accelerated weight return.
These medications imitate a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which moderates appetite.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 levels far above than the body's typical production could lead to the body to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and could lessen responsiveness to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Discontinuation of this medication means hunger is unsuppressed, making excessive eating far more likely."
A Chronic Issue?
The NHS advise the injections for people with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
Professionals argue that, given the significant potential of weight regain, the therapy is often ongoing.
This opinion is supported by drug manufacturers, who say that the results "highlight the long-term character of obesity," comparing it to managing conditions like diabetes.
User Accounts
Individuals who have come off the medication explain a intense return of cravings.
"It felt as if something that goes on and you're instantly starving," said an individual.
This challenge is exacerbated if patients have not developed lasting lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Widespread Use
Survey data indicate that millions of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with demand continuing to grow.
- Use is higher among women compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Finally, clinicians caution that while the jabs are potent agents for weight loss, they are not a standalone cure and long-term success relies on integrated behavioural support.
