A recent study reveals that patients who discontinue new slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on reduced body mass at a significantly accelerated pace than those who halt conventional lifestyle regimens.
Research printed in a major medical journal points out that while obese individuals can lose a large proportion of their total mass while using the jabs, the weight comes back at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Individuals using these medications need to be informed of the potential of rapid rebound weight gain when the treatment concludes," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery implies a return to pre-treatment weight in about a year and a half.
Weighing Therapies
The study, which reviewed 37 of trials involving thousands of participants, compared the effects of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
Scientists point out that individuals who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone typically see a less rapid weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
The Reason for the Fast Rebound
Doctors suggest the mechanism of the injections is key to understanding the accelerated weight return.
The injections imitate a natural hormone called GLP-1, which controls hunger.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 levels far above than the body's typical production may cause the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and may also diminish sensitivity to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Withdrawal of this GLP-1 'fix' leads to hunger is no longer kept in check, making binge eating much more probable."
A Chronic Condition?
Health authorities advise the jabs for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
Professionals say that, due to the high risk of relapse, the treatment should be considered long-term.
This perspective is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the findings "emphasize the long-term nature of excess weight," comparing it to managing conditions like diabetes.
Patient Testimonies
Individuals who have come off the jabs describe a powerful return of hunger.
"It felt as if a switch activating and you become extremely hungry," described an individual.
This difficulty is compounded if patients have not established lasting dietary or behavioural modifications during treatment.
Widespread Adoption
Figures indicate that a significant number of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with demand being substantial.
- Adoption is greater among females compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Finally, researchers stress that while these medications are powerful tools for weight loss, they are not a magic fix and long-term success likely depends on combined behavioural changes.
