Fresh analysis indicates that patients who come off 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 regimens.
Findings released in a major medical journal shows that while obese individuals frequently drop a large proportion of their total mass while using the jabs, the weight is regained at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Users purchasing these drugs need to be cognizant of the risk of quick weight regain when the treatment concludes," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain implies a return to starting weight in about 18 months.
Analyzing Therapies
The analysis, which reviewed dozens of trials involving thousands of participants, compared the results of these new drugs with other pills.
The team note that individuals who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone generally have a slower creep back—approximately 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
The Reason for the Fast Rebound
Doctors suggest the way of the drugs explains the amplified regain.
The injections copy a natural hormone called GLP-1, which helps regulate hunger.
"Artificially providing the hormone concentrations far above than normal could lead to the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and could reduce sensitivity to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement leads to hunger is unsuppressed, making excessive eating much more probable."
A Chronic Issue?
Health authorities recommend the jabs for people with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians argue that, considering the likelihood of relapse, the treatment might need to be ongoing.
This opinion is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the results "highlight the persistent nature of obesity," similar to managing conditions like diabetes.
Patient Accounts
Individuals who have discontinued the medication report a powerful resurgence of cravings.
"It was like something flipping and you become extremely hungry," said one woman.
The struggle is exacerbated if users have not established lasting dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Growing Adoption
Figures show that a significant number of adults in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with interest remaining high.
- Adoption is greater among women than men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Ultimately, clinicians caution that while the jabs are powerful tools for weight loss, they are not a standalone fix and lasting health benefits hinges on integrated behavioural changes.
