New research indicates that patients who stop using new slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on reduced body mass at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop traditional lifestyle regimens.
Published data in a major health publication points out that while overweight individuals often shed about a fifth of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the mass comes back at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"People purchasing these treatments must be informed of the potential of quick rebound weight gain when the therapy is stopped," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery suggests a reversion to original mass within about a year and a half.
Analyzing Therapies
The analysis, which examined 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the results of the injectable medications with other pills.
Scientists point out that people who shed pounds through diet and exercise generally have a slower weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Explaining the Fast Rebound
Experts believe the mechanism of the jabs accounts for the accelerated weight return.
The injections imitate a natural hormone called GLP-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of the hormone concentrations far above than normal may cause the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and may also reduce responsiveness to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Stopping of this medication results in appetite is no longer kept in check, making binge eating far more likely."
A Chronic Issue?
The NHS advise the jabs for individuals with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Many experts say that, due to the significant potential of relapse, the therapy is often long-term.
This view is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the results "emphasize the persistent nature of excess weight," comparing it to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
User Testimonies
Users who have come off the medication describe a powerful resurgence of cravings.
"It was like a trigger that goes on and I was suddenly ravenous," described one woman.
The struggle is worsened if patients have not established sustainable dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Significant Interest
Survey data indicate that a significant number of people in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with desire continuing to grow.
- Adoption is more common among females compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, researchers stress that while the jabs are effective tools for shedding pounds, they are not a magic fix and maintained weight loss hinges on ongoing lifestyle management.
