A recent study reveals 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 end conventional lifestyle programs.
Published data in a prominent medical journal points out that while obese people can lose about a fifth of their total mass while using the jabs, the mass returns at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Individuals using such medications must be informed of the risk of fast weight regain when the therapy ends," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain implies a reversion to starting weight in about one and a half years.
Analyzing Therapies
The study, which examined 37 of studies involving thousands of patients, contrasted the effects of the injectable medications with other pills.
Researchers point out that people who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone generally experience a less rapid creep back—perhaps 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
Explaining the Fast Regain
Doctors suggest the mechanism of the jabs explains the amplified rebound.
These medications imitate a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 levels far above than normal may cause the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and may also lessen sensitivity to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement results in hunger is uncontrolled, making overeating a significant risk."
A Lifelong Condition?
The NHS recommend the injections for people with weight-linked health risks, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
Many experts argue that, due to the high risk of relapse, the treatment is often ongoing.
This view is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who state that the findings "highlight the long-term nature of obesity," similar to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
Patient Experiences
People who have come off the medication explain a sudden return of hunger.
"It was like a switch that goes on and you become extremely hungry," said a patient.
This challenge is compounded if individuals have not developed lasting lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Widespread Interest
Survey data show that millions of people in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with interest remaining high.
- Adoption is more common among women compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest level of interest.
- Many access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Ultimately, researchers caution that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful tools for shedding pounds, they are not a magic cure and long-term success hinges on integrated lifestyle support.
