A recent study reveals that individuals who stop using popular slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on shed pounds much more quickly than those who end traditional lifestyle programs.
Findings released in a leading health publication points out that while obese individuals frequently drop a large proportion of their total mass while on the medication, the weight returns at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Users using these treatments need to be aware of the danger of fast weight regain when the medication ends," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain suggests a return to starting mass in about 18 months.
Analyzing Approaches
The study, which examined dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the effects of these new drugs with older methods.
The team note that people who shed pounds through diet and exercise usually see a less rapid creep back—approximately 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
Explaining the Fast Rebound
Nutrition scientists propose the mode of action of the drugs is key to understanding the amplified rebound.
These medications mimic a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Artificially providing the hormone concentrations far above than the body's typical production may cause the body to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and could diminish responsiveness to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' means appetite is uncontrolled, making excessive eating much more probable."
A Lifelong Condition?
Health authorities advise the jabs for people with obesity-related health risks, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
Many experts say that, given the significant potential of relapse, the treatment should be considered life-long.
This perspective is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the results "emphasize the long-term character of obesity," comparing it to managing diseases like hypertension.
User Testimonies
Individuals who have stopped the medication report a sudden return of appetite.
"I experienced a switch activating and you become starving," said one woman.
The struggle is compounded if patients have not adopted permanent lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Growing Adoption
Recent estimates show that a significant number of people in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with desire being substantial.
- Use is more common among females than males.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Ultimately, clinicians stress that while GLP-1 drugs are potent agents for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent cure and long-term success likely depends on ongoing lifestyle support.
