A recent study indicates that patients who stop using new slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide tend to recover shed pounds at a significantly accelerated pace than those who end conventional diet and exercise programs.
Findings released in a major medical journal shows that while overweight people often shed a large proportion of their body weight while using the jabs, the mass is regained at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Individuals using these treatments should be aware of the risk of quick weight regain when the therapy is stopped," stated researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain implies a reversion to pre-treatment mass in about a year and a half.
Weighing Treatments
The research, which reviewed dozens of trials involving thousands of participants, compared the effects of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
Researchers emphasize that individuals who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone usually experience a more gradual creep back—around 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
Understanding the Quick Regain
Experts believe the mode of action of the jabs is key to understanding the amplified regain.
These medications imitate a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing the hormone levels far above than the body's typical production could lead to the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and may also lessen sensitivity to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement leads to hunger is no longer kept in check, making overeating a significant risk."
An Ongoing Issue?
The NHS recommend the injections for people with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts contend that, considering the significant potential of relapse, the treatment might need to be life-long.
This perspective is echoed by drug manufacturers, who note that the findings "underscore the chronic character of obesity," comparing it to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
User Experiences
Users who have discontinued the medication describe a intense resurgence of cravings.
"It felt as if something flipping and I was suddenly starving," said a patient.
This challenge is exacerbated if individuals have not adopted sustainable dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Significant Adoption
Recent estimates show that millions of people in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with desire being substantial.
- Use is more common among women than men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Ultimately, researchers stress that while these medications are powerful agents for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent fix and long-term success hinges on integrated behavioural support.
