A recent study suggests that patients who stop using popular slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide may regain lost weight much more quickly than those who halt traditional lifestyle programs.
Research printed in a prominent health publication shows that while overweight people often shed about a fifth of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the mass is regained at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Users purchasing such treatments need to be informed of the danger of fast rebound weight gain when the therapy is stopped," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain suggests a reversion to starting weight within about a year and a half.
Comparing Treatments
The research, which looked at dozens of studies involving thousands of participants, contrasted the results of GLP-1 agonists with conventional dieting.
Researchers note that individuals who shed pounds through diet and exercise generally have a more gradual creep back—approximately 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Understanding the Quick Regain
Experts propose the mechanism of the injections accounts for the accelerated weight return.
These medications mimic a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing the hormone concentrations far above than normal may cause the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and may also lessen sensitivity to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' means appetite is uncontrolled, making overeating a significant risk."
A Lifelong Condition?
The NHS recommend the jabs for people with weight-linked health risks, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
Professionals argue that, due to the significant potential of relapse, the therapy should be considered long-term.
This opinion is echoed by drug manufacturers, who note that the results "highlight the persistent nature of excess weight," comparing it to managing conditions like hypertension.
Patient Accounts
Users who have stopped the medication describe a intense resurgence of cravings.
"It was like a trigger flipping and you're instantly ravenous," described an individual.
The struggle is compounded if individuals have not developed lasting dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Significant Use
Recent estimates show that a significant number of people in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with interest remaining high.
- Adoption is higher among females compared to men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest level of interest.
- Many obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
In conclusion, researchers emphasize that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful agents for weight loss, they are not a permanent cure and maintained weight loss relies on combined behavioural changes.
