New research reveals that people who come off new slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide tend to recover lost weight far faster than those who stop traditional diet and exercise regimens.
Published data in a prominent health publication points out that while obese people frequently drop about a fifth of their body weight while on the medication, the mass returns at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Individuals buying these medications must be aware of the risk of rapid rebound weight gain when the therapy is stopped," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery implies a reversion to original weight in about one and a half years.
Weighing Treatments
The analysis, which examined dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the results of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
Researchers point out that individuals who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone usually have a slower creep back—perhaps 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
Explaining the Fast Rebound
Doctors believe the way of the injections explains the accelerated weight return.
The injections imitate a natural hormone called GLP-1, which moderates appetite.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 concentrations far above than normal could lead to the system to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and could diminish responsiveness to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Discontinuation of this GLP-1 'fix' leads to hunger is no longer kept in check, making binge eating much more probable."
An Ongoing Issue?
The NHS suggest the injections for people with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
Many experts say that, given the high risk of relapse, the treatment should be considered long-term.
This opinion is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the results "underscore the persistent nature of obesity," comparing it to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
Patient Testimonies
Users who have stopped the medication describe a sudden resurgence of hunger.
"It felt as if a trigger activating and I was suddenly extremely hungry," said a patient.
The struggle is exacerbated if patients have not adopted permanent dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Significant Adoption
Survey data indicate that millions of adults in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with interest being substantial.
- Adoption is more common among females than men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many access the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Ultimately, clinicians stress that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful agents for weight loss, they are not a permanent cure and lasting health benefits hinges on combined lifestyle management.
