A recent study reveals that people who come off blockbuster slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on lost weight at a significantly accelerated pace than those who halt conventional lifestyle regimens.
Findings released in a leading medical journal demonstrates that while overweight individuals can lose a large proportion of their body weight while using the jabs, the mass is regained at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"People purchasing such treatments need to be cognizant of the risk of rapid rebound weight gain when the treatment ends," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain means a reversion to pre-treatment mass in about a year and a half.
Analyzing Approaches
The study, which reviewed dozens of studies involving thousands of patients, contrasted the effects of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
Scientists emphasize that people who lose weight through dieting generally experience a less rapid weight regain—around 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
Explaining the Quick Regain
Nutrition scientists propose the mechanism of the jabs is key to understanding the amplified weight return.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a natural hormone called GLP-1, which controls hunger.
"Long-term administration of the hormone concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production may cause the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and could reduce responsiveness to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Discontinuation of this GLP-1 'fix' means hunger is uncontrolled, making excessive eating a significant risk."
A Chronic Issue?
The NHS suggest the injections for people with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Professionals argue that, considering the likelihood of relapse, the therapy is often ongoing.
This view is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who note that the results "emphasize the persistent nature of excess weight," comparing it to managing conditions like hypertension.
User Experiences
Individuals who have stopped the jabs describe a intense return of hunger.
"I experienced a trigger that goes on and you become starving," said a patient.
This difficulty is exacerbated if individuals have not developed sustainable dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Widespread Adoption
Recent estimates indicate that a significant number of people in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with interest remaining high.
- Use is higher among women compared to males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- Many obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, experts emphasize that while these medications are potent agents for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone cure and maintained weight loss likely depends on ongoing lifestyle management.
