New research reveals that people who stop using blockbuster slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide may regain shed pounds far faster than those who halt conventional diet and exercise regimens.
Published data in a major health publication shows that while overweight people can lose substantial amounts of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the mass returns at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Users buying such medications should be aware of the risk of quick weight regain when the therapy is stopped," stated researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain means a return to pre-treatment mass in about 18 months.
Analyzing Treatments
The analysis, which examined dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the results of GLP-1 agonists with older methods.
Researchers note that people who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone usually see a slower creep back—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Explaining the Rapid Regain
Doctors suggest the mechanism of the jabs explains the amplified rebound.
The injections mimic a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 concentrations far above than normal may cause the body to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and may also diminish responsiveness to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Withdrawal of this GLP-1 'fix' results in hunger is unsuppressed, making excessive eating a significant risk."
A Chronic Condition?
Medical guidelines recommend the injections for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
Many experts say that, considering the high risk of relapse, the treatment might need to be long-term.
This view is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the findings "emphasize the chronic character of obesity," akin to managing conditions like diabetes.
User Experiences
Individuals who have come off the jabs report a intense return of appetite.
"It was like something activating and I was suddenly ravenous," said one woman.
The struggle is compounded if patients have not established lasting lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Growing Use
Survey data show that a significant number of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with desire being substantial.
- Use is more common among females than males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- Many obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Finally, experts emphasize that while GLP-1 drugs are effective tools for shedding pounds, they are not a magic solution and lasting health benefits likely depends on ongoing behavioural changes.
