A recent study suggests that people who stop using popular slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide tend to recover shed pounds at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop conventional diet and exercise plans.
Published data in a major medical journal points out that while obese individuals often shed substantial amounts of their body weight while on the medication, the weight returns at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Users using these medications need to be cognizant of the potential of rapid rebound weight gain when the medication ends," stated researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery suggests a return to original mass within about a year and a half.
Weighing Approaches
The research, which examined dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the outcomes of the injectable medications with older methods.
Scientists emphasize that individuals who lose weight through dieting generally have a slower weight regain—perhaps 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
Understanding the Fast Regain
Nutrition scientists believe the mechanism of the jabs accounts for the heightened rebound.
These medications copy a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which controls appetite.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production might result in the system to produce less of its own natural hormone, and could diminish responsiveness to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement means appetite is uncontrolled, making binge eating much more probable."
A Lifelong Issue?
The NHS recommend the jabs for individuals with weight-linked health risks, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
Many experts argue that, considering the significant potential of weight regain, the therapy is often ongoing.
This perspective is echoed by drug manufacturers, who say that the findings "underscore the long-term character of obesity," akin to managing conditions like hypertension.
User Experiences
Users who have discontinued the jabs describe a powerful resurgence of appetite.
"It felt as if something that goes on and you're instantly ravenous," said an individual.
This challenge is exacerbated if patients have not developed lasting dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Widespread Interest
Survey data suggest 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 compared to men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
In conclusion, clinicians stress that while GLP-1 drugs are potent tools for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone fix and lasting health benefits likely depends on combined behavioural management.
