New research reveals that patients who stop using new slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide tend to recover reduced body mass far faster than those who halt traditional lifestyle regimens.
Findings released in a prominent health publication points out that while overweight people can lose a large proportion of their body weight while using the jabs, the mass is regained at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Users using these drugs should be informed of the potential of rapid rebound weight gain when the medication ends," stated lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery suggests a reversion to original mass within about 18 months.
Comparing Approaches
The analysis, which examined dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the outcomes of GLP-1 agonists with conventional dieting.
Scientists note that people who shed pounds through diet and exercise usually have a slower weight regain—around 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
The Reason for the Fast Regain
Doctors believe the way of the jabs is key to understanding the amplified rebound.
These medications imitate a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which helps regulate hunger.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production could lead to the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and may also lessen sensitivity to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Stopping of this medication results in appetite is unsuppressed, making binge eating far more likely."
A Lifelong Condition?
Health authorities recommend the jabs for people with obesity-related health risks, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians contend that, due to the likelihood of weight regain, the treatment might need to be long-term.
This opinion is supported by drug manufacturers, who state that the results "highlight the chronic nature of obesity," akin to managing conditions like hypertension.
Patient Accounts
Users who have stopped the jabs report a powerful resurgence of cravings.
"It was like a trigger flipping and you're instantly starving," said an individual.
This difficulty is compounded if individuals have not developed lasting lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Growing Use
Figures suggest that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with interest continuing to grow.
- Use is higher among females compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many access the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, researchers emphasize that while the jabs are potent tools for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone solution and maintained weight loss likely depends on ongoing behavioural changes.
