Fresh analysis indicates that people who discontinue popular slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on reduced body mass much more quickly than those who halt conventional diet and exercise regimens.
Findings released in a prominent health publication points out that while obese people often shed about a fifth of their body weight while using the jabs, the weight comes back at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"People buying these drugs should be cognizant of the potential of quick weight regain when the therapy is stopped," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain means a reversion to starting weight within about 18 months.
Comparing Approaches
The analysis, which examined 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the results of GLP-1 agonists with conventional dieting.
Scientists emphasize that people who lose weight through dieting usually experience a less rapid creep back—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Understanding the Fast Rebound
Nutrition scientists propose the mode of action of the injections accounts for the accelerated rebound.
These medications copy a natural hormone called GLP-1, which moderates hunger.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 levels several times higher than the body's typical production could lead to the system to produce less of its own natural hormone, and may also diminish responsiveness to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Stopping of this medication results in hunger is no longer kept in check, making overeating a significant risk."
An Ongoing Issue?
The NHS recommend the injections for individuals with weight-linked health risks, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals argue that, due to the likelihood of relapse, the treatment might need to be long-term.
This opinion is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the results "highlight the chronic nature of excess weight," similar to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Experiences
Users who have discontinued the medication explain a sudden return of cravings.
"It felt as if a trigger flipping and I was suddenly starving," described an individual.
This difficulty is compounded if individuals have not developed sustainable lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Widespread Use
Recent estimates suggest that a significant number of adults in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with demand being substantial.
- Adoption is more common among women compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Finally, experts stress that while GLP-1 drugs are effective tools for weight loss, they are not a magic fix and maintained weight loss likely depends on integrated lifestyle changes.
