Fresh analysis reveals that people who stop using blockbuster slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide tend to recover shed pounds far faster than those who stop traditional diet and exercise plans.
Research printed in a prominent health publication shows that while obese individuals frequently drop substantial amounts of their body weight while using the jabs, the weight returns at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Individuals buying these medications should be informed of the risk of quick rebound weight gain when the treatment concludes," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery implies a reversion to starting weight within about one and a half years.
Analyzing Treatments
The study, which looked at 37 of studies involving thousands of patients, contrasted the outcomes of the injectable medications with older methods.
Researchers emphasize that individuals who lose weight through dieting generally have a more gradual creep back—approximately 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Explaining the Fast Rebound
Experts propose the mode of action of the drugs explains the heightened rebound.
The injections mimic a natural hormone called GLP-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than normal may cause the body to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and could reduce responsiveness to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement leads to appetite is unsuppressed, making excessive eating a significant risk."
A Lifelong Issue?
The NHS advise the injections for people with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians argue that, due to the likelihood of relapse, the treatment might need to be life-long.
This opinion is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the results "highlight the long-term nature of excess weight," comparing it to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
Patient Accounts
Individuals who have discontinued the medication explain a intense return of cravings.
"I experienced something that goes on and you're instantly starving," said a patient.
This challenge is exacerbated if patients have not established sustainable lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Growing Interest
Recent estimates show that a significant number of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with demand being substantial.
- Use is more common among women compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Ultimately, clinicians stress that while these medications are powerful tools for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone solution and long-term success relies on integrated behavioural management.
