A recent study reveals that people who stop using new slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide tend to recover reduced body mass much more quickly than those who halt traditional diet and exercise regimens.
Research printed in a leading medical journal points out that while overweight people can lose about a fifth of their body weight while on the medication, the mass is regained at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"People purchasing such treatments need to be aware of the risk of quick weight regain when the medication concludes," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery means a return to starting weight within about 18 months.
Analyzing Therapies
The analysis, which examined 37 of studies involving thousands of participants, compared the results of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
Scientists note that individuals who shed pounds through dieting typically have a more gradual weight regain—around 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
Explaining the Fast Regain
Experts propose the mechanism of the jabs is key to understanding the accelerated weight return.
GLP-1 drugs copy a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone levels several times higher than the body's typical production may cause the system to produce less of its own natural hormone, and could lessen responsiveness to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Stopping of this medication leads to appetite is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating a significant risk."
An Ongoing Condition?
Medical guidelines recommend the jabs for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
Many experts argue that, given the high risk of weight regain, the treatment should be considered ongoing.
This view is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the findings "emphasize the long-term character of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like hypertension.
Patient Experiences
Users who have come off the medication report a sudden return of hunger.
"I experienced something activating and you become starving," described an individual.
This challenge is exacerbated if patients have not adopted permanent lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Widespread Adoption
Survey data show that millions of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with interest being substantial.
- Adoption is higher among women compared to males.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Finally, experts emphasize that while these medications are powerful agents for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent cure and lasting health benefits hinges on combined lifestyle management.
