A recent study suggests that patients 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 conventional lifestyle regimens.
Findings released in a leading medical journal demonstrates that while overweight people frequently drop a large proportion of their total mass while on the medication, the weight returns at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Users purchasing such medications need to be aware of the danger of quick weight regain when the medication is stopped," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain suggests a return to original mass within about a year and a half.
Analyzing Approaches
The study, which reviewed 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the results of the injectable medications with older methods.
Scientists note that individuals who lose weight through diet and exercise generally experience a more gradual creep back—around 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
The Reason for the Quick Regain
Doctors believe the mechanism of the injections explains the heightened regain.
GLP-1 drugs copy a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls hunger.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 levels far above than the body's typical production might result in the system to produce less of its own natural hormone, and may also diminish sensitivity to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Withdrawal of this medication leads to appetite is no longer kept in check, making overeating far more likely."
A Lifelong Disease?
Health authorities recommend the injections for individuals with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians argue that, given the high risk of weight regain, the therapy should be considered ongoing.
This opinion is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the findings "emphasize the long-term nature of excess weight," comparing it to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Experiences
Individuals who have come off the jabs describe a intense resurgence of appetite.
"I experienced a switch flipping and I was suddenly ravenous," said a patient.
This challenge is compounded if users have not developed sustainable lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Widespread Interest
Survey data show that a significant number of people in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with demand being substantial.
- Use is more common among women than males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, clinicians caution that while GLP-1 drugs are effective agents for weight loss, they are not a magic fix and maintained weight loss hinges on combined behavioural changes.
