Fresh analysis suggests that individuals who come off blockbuster slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on reduced body mass much more quickly than those who stop conventional diet and exercise plans.
Published data in a major medical journal demonstrates that while overweight individuals often shed about a fifth of their total mass while using the jabs, the mass returns at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"People buying these medications should be informed of the danger of fast rebound weight gain when the treatment is stopped," stated lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery implies a return to pre-treatment weight in about 18 months.
Comparing Therapies
The analysis, which reviewed 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the effects of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
Researchers point out that individuals who lose weight through dieting generally have a slower weight regain—approximately 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
The Reason for the Rapid Rebound
Doctors believe the mechanism of the injections is key to understanding the heightened weight return.
The injections mimic a natural hormone called GLP-1, which controls appetite.
"Artificially providing the hormone concentrations far above than the body's typical production may cause the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and may also diminish responsiveness to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Withdrawal of this medication results in appetite is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating far more likely."
A Lifelong Disease?
Health authorities recommend the injections for people with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
Professionals say that, given the significant potential of relapse, the therapy should be considered long-term.
This opinion is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the findings "highlight the persistent character of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like diabetes.
Patient Experiences
Users who have come off the jabs explain a sudden return of hunger.
"I experienced a trigger that goes on and you become extremely hungry," described an individual.
The struggle is exacerbated if users have not developed permanent lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Widespread Use
Figures suggest that millions of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with desire being substantial.
- Adoption is greater among females compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Finally, clinicians caution that while these medications are potent tools for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone fix and maintained weight loss hinges on ongoing lifestyle support.
