Fresh analysis indicates that individuals who stop using new slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on shed pounds at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop conventional diet and exercise plans.
Research printed in a leading health publication demonstrates that while obese individuals often shed substantial amounts of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the weight comes back at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Users purchasing such treatments must be informed of the risk of fast weight regain when the therapy is stopped," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery suggests a return to original mass within about a year and a half.
Analyzing Therapies
The study, which looked at dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the effects of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
The team note that people who lose weight through diet and exercise typically see a more gradual creep back—around 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
Understanding the Rapid Regain
Nutrition scientists suggest the mode of action of the jabs explains the heightened weight return.
The injections copy a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates hunger.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 levels far above than normal might result in the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and may also diminish sensitivity to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement results in hunger is uncontrolled, making excessive eating a significant risk."
A Chronic Issue?
Health authorities suggest the jabs for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians argue that, given the high risk of relapse, the treatment should be considered ongoing.
This opinion is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the findings "emphasize the chronic nature of excess weight," comparing it to managing conditions like hypertension.
User Testimonies
Users who have stopped the medication explain a sudden resurgence of cravings.
"It was like a trigger activating and you're instantly extremely hungry," said one woman.
This difficulty is compounded if users have not adopted lasting lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Growing Use
Figures suggest that millions of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with interest being substantial.
- Use is higher among females compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Ultimately, clinicians stress that while the jabs are potent tools for weight loss, they are not a magic solution and maintained weight loss likely depends on combined behavioural changes.
