Fresh analysis indicates that patients who come off new slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on lost weight far faster than those who halt conventional diet and exercise plans.
Research printed in a leading health publication points out that while overweight people can lose about a fifth of their body weight while using the jabs, the mass returns at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Individuals buying such drugs must be informed of the potential of fast rebound weight gain when the therapy ends," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain implies a return to pre-treatment weight within about one and a half years.
Comparing Approaches
The study, which examined 37 of trials involving thousands of participants, compared the outcomes of the injectable medications with other pills.
Scientists emphasize that individuals who lose weight through diet and exercise usually experience a more gradual creep back—approximately 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
The Reason for the Rapid Regain
Doctors suggest the mode of action of the drugs is key to understanding the amplified rebound.
These medications mimic a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 levels several times higher than the body's typical production could lead to the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and may also reduce sensitivity to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Discontinuation of this medication results in appetite is unsuppressed, making binge eating much more probable."
A Lifelong Disease?
Health authorities advise the injections for individuals with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals argue that, due to the high risk of relapse, the treatment is often life-long.
This perspective is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the results "emphasize the persistent character of obesity," similar to managing conditions like diabetes.
User Experiences
People who have come off the medication describe a intense resurgence of hunger.
"It was like something that goes on and I was suddenly starving," said one woman.
This difficulty is exacerbated if individuals have not established sustainable dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Widespread Adoption
Recent estimates show that a significant number of adults in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with interest being substantial.
- Use is more common among females compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Finally, researchers emphasize that while these medications are potent agents for weight loss, they are not a permanent solution and maintained weight loss hinges on combined behavioural changes.
