Fresh analysis suggests that individuals who come off popular slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on lost weight much more quickly than those who halt conventional diet and exercise regimens.
Published data in a major health publication shows that while overweight people often shed substantial amounts of their total mass while on the medication, the mass returns at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"People using such drugs must be cognizant of the risk of quick rebound weight gain when the therapy ends," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery means a reversion to original mass within about one and a half years.
Analyzing Approaches
The study, which looked at 37 of studies involving thousands of patients, contrasted the effects of these new drugs with older methods.
Scientists emphasize that people who shed pounds through dieting typically experience a more gradual weight regain—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
Understanding the Rapid Rebound
Experts suggest the mode of action of the jabs accounts for the accelerated weight return.
These medications copy a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of the hormone levels several times higher than the body's typical production might result in the system to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and could reduce responsiveness to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' results in appetite is no longer kept in check, making binge eating far more likely."
A Lifelong Issue?
The NHS advise the jabs for people with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
Professionals contend that, considering the high risk of weight regain, the therapy might need to be life-long.
This view is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the findings "emphasize the persistent character of excess weight," akin to managing conditions like hypertension.
User Testimonies
Individuals who have discontinued the jabs describe a sudden return of cravings.
"It felt as if a trigger activating and I was suddenly extremely hungry," recalled an individual.
This challenge is exacerbated if individuals have not developed lasting dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Growing Interest
Survey data indicate that millions of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with interest continuing to grow.
- Adoption is more common among females than males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- Many obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Finally, researchers emphasize that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful tools for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent fix and maintained weight loss likely depends on ongoing behavioural changes.
