A recent study reveals that individuals who come off blockbuster slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on lost weight much more quickly than those who halt traditional lifestyle programs.
Research printed in a prominent medical journal points out that while obese individuals frequently drop substantial amounts of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the weight comes back at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Individuals purchasing such treatments must be aware of the risk of rapid weight regain when the therapy concludes," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain suggests a return to original weight within about a year and a half.
Analyzing Approaches
The study, which reviewed 37 of trials involving thousands of participants, contrasted the effects of the injectable medications with other pills.
The team emphasize that individuals who shed pounds through dieting generally experience a slower weight regain—around 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
The Reason for the Quick Regain
Nutrition scientists suggest the mechanism of the injections explains the amplified regain.
These medications copy a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone levels far above than the body's typical production may cause the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and could lessen responsiveness to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Withdrawal of this medication results in hunger is unsuppressed, making overeating much more probable."
An Ongoing Issue?
Medical guidelines recommend the jabs for people with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
Professionals say that, considering the likelihood of relapse, the treatment is often long-term.
This opinion is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the findings "emphasize the chronic nature of obesity," akin to managing conditions like diabetes.
Patient Experiences
Individuals who have stopped the jabs describe a sudden return of cravings.
"It felt as if a switch that goes on and you become ravenous," described a patient.
This challenge is compounded if patients have not adopted sustainable lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Growing Interest
Figures show that a significant number of adults in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with demand remaining high.
- Adoption is more common among women compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many access the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, experts stress that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful agents for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone solution and maintained weight loss likely depends on integrated behavioural management.
