A recent study suggests that individuals who come off popular slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on reduced body mass much more quickly than those who stop traditional diet and exercise plans.
Research printed in a major health publication points out that while obese individuals often shed about a fifth of their body weight while using the jabs, the mass is regained at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"People purchasing such treatments need to be informed of the danger of quick weight regain when the therapy ends," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery means a return to original mass in about one and a half years.
Weighing Approaches
The study, which looked at dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the effects of these new drugs with other pills.
The team emphasize that people who shed pounds through diet and exercise usually have a slower creep back—approximately 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
The Reason for the Quick Regain
Doctors believe the way of the injections is key to understanding the amplified weight return.
The injections imitate a natural hormone called GLP-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 concentrations far above than the body's typical production may cause the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also reduce responsiveness to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement means appetite is unsuppressed, making excessive eating much more probable."
A Chronic Issue?
Medical guidelines suggest the jabs for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals argue that, considering the likelihood of weight regain, the treatment should be considered life-long.
This opinion is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the findings "highlight the chronic nature of excess weight," comparing it to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
Patient Accounts
Users who have stopped the medication report a sudden return of appetite.
"It felt as if a switch flipping and I was suddenly starving," said one woman.
This difficulty is compounded if users have not adopted sustainable lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Widespread Interest
Recent estimates indicate that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with desire being substantial.
- Adoption is greater among females compared to males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
In conclusion, clinicians emphasize that while GLP-1 drugs are potent tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent cure and maintained weight loss hinges on integrated lifestyle support.