New research reveals that people who come off popular slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide may regain shed pounds far faster than those who stop traditional lifestyle programs.
Published data in a leading health publication points out that while obese individuals frequently drop substantial amounts of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the mass returns at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"People purchasing such drugs should be informed of the risk of quick rebound weight gain when the treatment concludes," stated lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain means a return to pre-treatment weight in about 18 months.
Comparing Therapies
The study, which looked at dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the outcomes of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
Researchers note that people who lose weight through diet and exercise generally have a slower creep back—around 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
The Reason for the Fast Rebound
Experts believe the mode of action of the jabs explains the heightened weight return.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates hunger.
"Artificially providing the hormone concentrations far above than normal might result in the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and may also reduce responsiveness to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Discontinuation of this medication means appetite is unsuppressed, making binge eating a significant risk."
An Ongoing Disease?
The NHS advise the injections for people with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals say that, considering the likelihood of weight regain, the therapy might need to be ongoing.
This view is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the results "emphasize the persistent character of obesity," comparing it to managing conditions like diabetes.
User Experiences
Users who have discontinued the jabs explain a sudden resurgence of cravings.
"I experienced something flipping and you become ravenous," described a patient.
The struggle is compounded if users have not developed lasting dietary or behavioural modifications during treatment.
Widespread Interest
Survey data show that a significant number of people in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with interest being substantial.
- Adoption is higher among females compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
In conclusion, researchers emphasize that while the jabs are effective tools for weight loss, they are not a standalone cure and long-term success likely depends on integrated behavioural changes.
