A recent study indicates that patients who stop using popular slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide may regain shed pounds far faster than those who end conventional diet and exercise plans.
Research printed in a leading health publication points out that while obese individuals can lose about a fifth of their total mass while using the jabs, the mass comes back at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Users buying such treatments should be cognizant of the potential of rapid rebound weight gain when the therapy ends," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain means a reversion to starting weight within about one and a half years.
Analyzing Approaches
The analysis, which examined 37 of trials involving thousands of patients, contrasted the effects of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
Researchers point out that people who shed pounds through diet and exercise generally have a less rapid creep back—around 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Understanding the Fast Regain
Nutrition scientists suggest the mode of action of the injections is key to understanding the amplified regain.
The injections mimic a natural hormone called GLP-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone concentrations far above than normal could lead to the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and may also diminish sensitivity to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement results in appetite is unsuppressed, making excessive eating far more likely."
An Ongoing Condition?
Health authorities advise the jabs for individuals with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians argue that, given the high risk of weight regain, the therapy is often long-term.
This view is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the findings "underscore the chronic character of excess weight," similar to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
User Testimonies
People who have come off the jabs report a intense resurgence of hunger.
"I experienced something that goes on and you become extremely hungry," described an individual.
The struggle is exacerbated if individuals have not developed lasting lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Widespread Use
Recent estimates indicate that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with desire continuing to grow.
- Adoption is greater among women compared to males.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion access the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Finally, researchers emphasize that while these medications are powerful tools for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone solution and long-term success relies on combined behavioural changes.
