A recent study reveals that people who come off blockbuster slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide may regain reduced body mass at a significantly accelerated pace than those who halt traditional diet and exercise regimens.
Findings released in a major medical journal shows that while obese individuals can lose a large proportion of their body weight while using the jabs, the mass comes back at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"People using these drugs should be aware of the risk of quick rebound weight gain when the treatment concludes," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain means a return to starting mass within about 18 months.
Weighing Therapies
The analysis, which reviewed dozens of trials involving thousands of participants, contrasted the results of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
Researchers emphasize that people who lose weight through dieting typically experience a slower creep back—approximately 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
The Reason for the Rapid Rebound
Experts believe the mechanism of the drugs explains the heightened regain.
The injections copy a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates appetite.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 levels several times higher than normal may cause the body to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and may also lessen sensitivity to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement means appetite is unsuppressed, making binge eating far more likely."
A Lifelong Condition?
Health authorities recommend the jabs for people with weight-linked health risks, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
Many experts say that, given the significant potential of relapse, the treatment might need to be long-term.
This perspective is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the results "highlight the persistent character of obesity," similar to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Testimonies
Users who have come off the jabs explain a powerful resurgence of cravings.
"It was like something activating and I was suddenly ravenous," recalled a patient.
This difficulty is exacerbated if users have not established sustainable dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Widespread Adoption
Survey data indicate that a significant number of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with interest being substantial.
- Use is more common among females compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Finally, researchers emphasize that while the jabs are effective agents for shedding pounds, they are not a magic fix and lasting health benefits likely depends on ongoing lifestyle management.
