Fresh analysis indicates that individuals who stop using popular slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on lost weight at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop traditional diet and exercise regimens.
Research printed in a prominent health publication demonstrates that while overweight individuals frequently drop a large proportion of their body weight while on the medication, the weight comes back at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"People using such treatments should be aware of the danger of quick rebound weight gain when the treatment ends," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain suggests a return to starting mass within about a year and a half.
Comparing Approaches
The analysis, which reviewed dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the results of GLP-1 agonists with other pills.
The team note that people who lose weight through dieting usually experience a more gradual creep back—approximately 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
The Reason for the Rapid Rebound
Nutrition scientists believe the way of the drugs is key to understanding the heightened regain.
The injections copy a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than normal could lead to the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and could lessen responsiveness to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement leads to appetite is uncontrolled, making overeating much more probable."
An Ongoing Issue?
The NHS advise the jabs for people with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts argue that, due to the significant potential of relapse, the therapy might need to be life-long.
This opinion is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who state that the results "underscore the persistent nature of obesity," akin to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Testimonies
Users who have stopped the medication describe a sudden return of hunger.
"It was like something that goes on and you become ravenous," said one woman.
The struggle is compounded if users have not established lasting dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Significant Adoption
Figures indicate that millions of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with desire remaining high.
- Use is more common among women than males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest usage rates.
- Many access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, researchers emphasize that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent cure and maintained weight loss hinges on integrated behavioural management.
