A recent study suggests that patients who discontinue new slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide tend to recover lost weight at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop traditional diet and exercise regimens.
Findings released in a prominent health publication shows that while obese people frequently drop substantial amounts of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the weight is regained at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Individuals using these medications should be informed of the danger of quick weight regain when the medication concludes," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain suggests a return to pre-treatment weight within about one and a half years.
Comparing Treatments
The study, which examined dozens of studies involving thousands of participants, contrasted the results of GLP-1 agonists with older methods.
Scientists emphasize that individuals who lose weight through diet and exercise typically have a slower creep back—approximately 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
Explaining the Quick Regain
Doctors propose the way of the injections explains the heightened weight return.
The injections copy a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which controls appetite.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone levels far above than the body's typical production could lead to the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and may also diminish sensitivity to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' leads to appetite is no longer kept in check, making overeating much more probable."
A Chronic Condition?
Medical guidelines advise the jabs for individuals with obesity-related health risks, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
Many experts contend that, given the high risk of relapse, the therapy might need to be life-long.
This perspective is echoed by drug manufacturers, who say that the findings "underscore the long-term nature of excess weight," akin to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Experiences
Users who have discontinued the jabs explain a sudden resurgence of cravings.
"It was like a trigger flipping and you're instantly extremely hungry," said an individual.
The struggle is exacerbated if individuals have not adopted lasting dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Growing Use
Figures suggest that a significant number of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with interest remaining high.
- Adoption is greater among women than males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest usage rates.
- Many access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Ultimately, researchers caution that while the jabs are potent agents for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent cure and long-term success relies on combined lifestyle management.
