A recent study reveals that individuals who stop using new slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide may regain shed pounds much more quickly than those who halt traditional diet and exercise regimens.
Findings released in a major medical journal demonstrates that while obese people often shed substantial amounts of their total mass while using the jabs, the weight is regained at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"Users buying these drugs need to be aware of the risk of rapid weight regain when the treatment is stopped," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain means a return to starting mass in about 18 months.
Comparing Approaches
The research, which looked at 37 of studies involving thousands of patients, compared the outcomes of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
The team point out that individuals who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone typically see a slower weight regain—approximately 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
Explaining the Quick Regain
Experts propose the mechanism of the drugs accounts for the amplified regain.
The injections mimic a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing the hormone levels several times higher than normal could lead to the system to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and may also diminish responsiveness to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Discontinuation of this medication results in hunger is uncontrolled, making binge eating a significant risk."
A Chronic Condition?
Medical guidelines recommend the jabs for individuals with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians argue that, given the high risk of relapse, the therapy should be considered ongoing.
This perspective is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who note that the findings "highlight the chronic nature of obesity," similar to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
User Experiences
People who have stopped the medication report a sudden return of hunger.
"It felt as if a trigger that goes on and you're instantly starving," said a patient.
The struggle is worsened if users have not established lasting lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Growing Interest
Recent estimates indicate that millions of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with demand being substantial.
- Adoption is more common among women than males.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Ultimately, researchers caution that while the jabs are effective agents for shedding pounds, they are not a magic cure and maintained weight loss likely depends on combined behavioural management.
