Fresh analysis indicates that individuals who come off popular slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on lost weight much more quickly than those who stop traditional lifestyle regimens.
Findings released in a leading medical journal shows that while obese individuals often shed substantial amounts of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the mass returns at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Individuals purchasing such medications need to be aware of the potential of quick weight regain when the treatment is stopped," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery implies a reversion to pre-treatment weight in about 18 months.
Weighing Treatments
The analysis, which reviewed 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the outcomes of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
Scientists point out that individuals who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone typically experience a less rapid weight regain—approximately 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
Explaining the Fast Regain
Doctors propose the mode of action of the injections accounts for the amplified regain.
These medications mimic a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of the hormone levels far above than normal may cause the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and could reduce responsiveness to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Stopping of this medication results in appetite is unsuppressed, making overeating far more likely."
A Lifelong Issue?
Medical guidelines suggest the injections for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts argue that, considering the likelihood of relapse, the therapy should be considered life-long.
This view is supported by drug manufacturers, who say that the findings "emphasize the persistent nature of excess weight," comparing it to managing conditions like hypertension.
Patient Accounts
People who have stopped the medication explain a powerful resurgence of cravings.
"It was like a trigger activating and you become starving," recalled a patient.
The struggle is exacerbated if users have not established lasting lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Widespread Use
Survey data suggest that millions of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with desire continuing to grow.
- Use is higher among women than men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Finally, clinicians caution that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful agents for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent cure and long-term success likely depends on combined lifestyle changes.
