New research suggests that people who come off blockbuster slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide tend to recover reduced body mass far faster than those who stop traditional lifestyle programs.
Research printed in a major medical journal demonstrates that while obese people can lose about a fifth of their total mass while using the jabs, the weight comes back at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Users buying these medications must be aware of the risk of rapid weight regain when the treatment ends," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain suggests a reversion to original mass in about 18 months.
Weighing Treatments
The research, which reviewed dozens of trials involving thousands of patients, contrasted the results of these new drugs with other pills.
Scientists emphasize that individuals who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone typically see a more gradual creep back—perhaps 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
The Reason for the Quick Rebound
Doctors believe the mode of action of the drugs explains the accelerated rebound.
The injections imitate a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing the hormone levels far above than the body's typical production might result in the system to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and may also lessen sensitivity to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Discontinuation of this GLP-1 'fix' leads to appetite is uncontrolled, making excessive eating much more probable."
An Ongoing Disease?
Health authorities advise the injections for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals contend that, due to the significant potential of relapse, the treatment might need to be ongoing.
This view is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the findings "underscore the chronic character of obesity," similar to managing conditions like diabetes.
Patient Accounts
People who have come off the medication report a powerful resurgence of hunger.
"I experienced a trigger activating and you're instantly ravenous," said an individual.
This difficulty is exacerbated if individuals have not established sustainable lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Widespread Use
Figures show that a significant number of people in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with demand continuing to grow.
- Use is more common among females than men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Finally, researchers caution that while these medications are effective agents for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent solution and long-term success likely depends on combined lifestyle management.
