Fresh analysis indicates that patients who stop using popular slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide tend to recover lost weight much more quickly than those who halt traditional diet and exercise programs.
Published data in a leading health publication shows that while obese individuals can lose about a fifth of their body weight while on the medication, the weight returns at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Individuals buying such treatments must be informed of the risk of quick rebound weight gain when the medication ends," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery means a return to starting weight within about 18 months.
Analyzing Treatments
The analysis, which examined 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the outcomes of the injectable medications with other pills.
Scientists emphasize that individuals who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone generally see a less rapid creep back—around 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
Explaining the Quick Rebound
Experts suggest the mode of action of the jabs is key to understanding the accelerated weight return.
The injections imitate a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 concentrations far above than the body's typical production may cause the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also reduce sensitivity to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Stopping of this medication means hunger is no longer kept in check, making binge eating far more likely."
An Ongoing Disease?
Health authorities suggest the injections for individuals with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians argue that, considering the significant potential of relapse, the therapy might need to be ongoing.
This perspective is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the results "emphasize the long-term character of obesity," comparing it to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
Patient Experiences
Users who have come off the jabs report a powerful resurgence of hunger.
"It was like something activating and you're instantly starving," said one woman.
This challenge is exacerbated if patients have not established permanent lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Growing Adoption
Recent estimates indicate that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with interest remaining high.
- Adoption is higher among females than males.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest usage rates.
- Many access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
In conclusion, experts stress that while the jabs are potent agents for weight loss, they are not a standalone fix and maintained weight loss hinges on integrated behavioural changes.
