New research indicates that people who come off popular slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide tend to recover reduced body mass far faster than those who halt conventional lifestyle plans.
Research printed in a leading medical journal points out that while overweight people can lose about a fifth of their total mass while on the medication, the mass is regained at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"People using such medications need to be informed of the risk of fast rebound weight gain when the treatment is stopped," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain implies a reversion to original mass within about 18 months.
Weighing Therapies
The analysis, which examined 37 of studies involving thousands of participants, contrasted the outcomes of the injectable medications with other pills.
Researchers point out that individuals who lose weight through dieting generally see a more gradual creep back—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Explaining the Fast Regain
Nutrition scientists propose the way of the injections explains the amplified regain.
The injections copy a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which moderates appetite.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 levels far above than normal could lead to the system to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also reduce sensitivity to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Withdrawal of this medication leads to appetite is no longer kept in check, making binge eating a significant risk."
An Ongoing Issue?
Health authorities advise the injections for individuals with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Professionals argue that, due to the likelihood of relapse, the treatment might need to be ongoing.
This perspective is echoed by drug manufacturers, who state that the results "highlight the long-term nature of excess weight," comparing it to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
User Testimonies
Users who have discontinued the medication report a powerful return of cravings.
"It felt as if a switch activating and you're instantly ravenous," described one woman.
This difficulty is worsened if users have not adopted permanent dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Growing Use
Figures show that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with desire remaining high.
- Adoption is greater among women than men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, experts emphasize that while GLP-1 drugs are potent tools for shedding pounds, they are not a magic cure and long-term success likely depends on combined lifestyle support.
