Fresh analysis suggests that patients who come off popular slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide may regain reduced body mass far faster than those who end conventional lifestyle regimens.
Research printed in a prominent health publication demonstrates that while overweight people can lose about a fifth of their total mass while on the medication, the mass is regained at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"People buying these drugs need to be informed of the risk of rapid weight regain when the therapy is stopped," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery suggests a reversion to starting mass in about a year and a half.
Comparing Approaches
The study, which reviewed dozens of studies involving thousands of patients, contrasted the results of the injectable medications with other pills.
Scientists note that people who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone generally see a more gradual weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Understanding the Quick Regain
Nutrition scientists propose the mode of action of the jabs explains the accelerated weight return.
The injections copy a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Long-term administration of the hormone levels several times higher than normal might result in the body to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and may also lessen responsiveness to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement results in appetite is unsuppressed, making overeating much more probable."
A Chronic Disease?
Health authorities suggest the injections for individuals with weight-linked health risks, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians contend that, due to the high risk of weight regain, the treatment should be considered long-term.
This opinion is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the results "underscore the long-term nature of excess weight," comparing it to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Experiences
Users who have stopped the medication describe a sudden resurgence of hunger.
"It felt as if a trigger that goes on and you become extremely hungry," recalled an individual.
This difficulty is exacerbated if individuals have not developed lasting dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Significant Interest
Figures indicate that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with demand continuing to grow.
- Adoption is higher among females than men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Ultimately, clinicians stress that while GLP-1 drugs are potent tools for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent solution and lasting health benefits relies on combined behavioural management.
