A recent study suggests that individuals who stop using new slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide tend to recover lost weight much more quickly than those who stop traditional lifestyle programs.
Findings released in a major health publication shows that while obese people often shed substantial amounts of their total mass while using the jabs, the weight returns at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"People using these treatments need to be aware of the danger of fast weight regain when the therapy concludes," stated researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain implies a reversion to pre-treatment weight in about 18 months.
Weighing Therapies
The analysis, which looked at dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the results of these new drugs with other pills.
Researchers emphasize that individuals who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone generally see a more gradual weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
The Reason for the Quick Regain
Doctors believe the way of the jabs accounts for the accelerated rebound.
These medications imitate a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of the hormone levels several times higher than the body's typical production may cause the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and may also diminish responsiveness to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Stopping of this medication leads to hunger is uncontrolled, making overeating a significant risk."
A Chronic Condition?
The NHS suggest the jabs for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians say that, considering the high risk of weight regain, the therapy might need to be ongoing.
This view is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the findings "highlight the chronic nature of obesity," comparing it to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
User Accounts
Users who have discontinued the medication describe a powerful return of cravings.
"It was like something that goes on and you're instantly starving," described an individual.
This difficulty is worsened if individuals have not developed permanent dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Significant Interest
Recent estimates show that a significant number of people in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with demand remaining high.
- Use is more common among women than males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many access the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, researchers caution that while the jabs are potent agents for weight loss, they are not a magic fix and lasting health benefits likely depends on ongoing lifestyle management.
