New research reveals that patients who stop using popular slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on reduced body mass at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop conventional lifestyle regimens.
Research printed in a leading medical journal shows that while obese people can lose a large proportion of their total mass while on the medication, the mass comes back at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Users buying these medications need to be informed of the risk of rapid rebound weight gain when the therapy concludes," stated lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain suggests a return to pre-treatment weight within about 18 months.
Analyzing Approaches
The study, which examined dozens of studies involving thousands of patients, compared the results of GLP-1 agonists with older methods.
Researchers point out that individuals who lose weight through diet and exercise generally experience a slower weight regain—perhaps 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
Understanding the Fast Rebound
Doctors suggest the way of the injections is key to understanding the heightened weight return.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production could lead to the system to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and could lessen responsiveness to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Stopping of this medication results in hunger is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating far more likely."
A Lifelong Issue?
Medical guidelines suggest the jabs for people with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
Many experts contend that, considering the significant potential of weight regain, the treatment is often ongoing.
This perspective is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the findings "underscore the long-term character of obesity," comparing it to managing conditions like hypertension.
Patient Experiences
Users who have discontinued the jabs describe a intense resurgence of appetite.
"I experienced something activating and I was suddenly ravenous," said an individual.
This challenge is compounded if individuals have not developed lasting lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Growing Adoption
Recent estimates indicate that millions of people in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with interest being substantial.
- Adoption is more common among women than males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many access the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, researchers emphasize that while GLP-1 drugs are potent agents for shedding pounds, they are not a magic fix and long-term success relies on combined behavioural support.
