New research reveals that people who stop using new slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on shed pounds much more quickly than those who halt conventional diet and exercise regimens.
Research printed in a leading health publication shows that while obese individuals can lose a large proportion of their total mass while on the medication, the weight comes back at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Individuals buying these drugs must be cognizant of the danger of fast weight regain when the treatment concludes," stated researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery means a return to starting weight in about one and a half years.
Weighing Treatments
The research, which examined 37 of trials involving thousands of participants, compared the effects of these new drugs with older methods.
The team point out that individuals who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone typically see a less rapid creep back—approximately 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
Explaining the Quick Rebound
Experts believe the mode of action of the jabs accounts for the accelerated weight return.
GLP-1 drugs copy a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of the hormone concentrations far above than the body's typical production might result in the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and could diminish responsiveness to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Discontinuation of this GLP-1 'fix' means appetite is no longer kept in check, making overeating much more probable."
An Ongoing Disease?
Health authorities advise the jabs for individuals with obesity-related health risks, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals argue that, due to the significant potential of relapse, the therapy should be considered long-term.
This view is supported by drug manufacturers, who say that the results "emphasize the persistent nature of excess weight," comparing it to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
User Experiences
Users who have discontinued the medication describe a sudden resurgence of cravings.
"I experienced a trigger flipping and you're instantly starving," recalled one woman.
This difficulty is worsened if individuals have not established lasting dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Widespread Use
Figures suggest that a significant number of people in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with demand remaining high.
- Use is higher among females compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest usage rates.
- Many obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Ultimately, clinicians emphasize that while GLP-1 drugs are potent tools for shedding pounds, they are not a magic cure and lasting health benefits likely depends on ongoing behavioural management.
