Fresh analysis reveals that individuals who stop using popular slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on reduced body mass at a significantly accelerated pace than those who end traditional diet and exercise programs.
Findings released in a major medical journal points out that while overweight individuals frequently drop substantial amounts of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the mass is regained at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Users purchasing these medications must be cognizant of the danger of quick rebound weight gain when the treatment concludes," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery suggests a reversion to pre-treatment weight within about one and a half years.
Analyzing Treatments
The analysis, which reviewed 37 of studies involving thousands of participants, compared the outcomes of the injectable medications with other pills.
Scientists note that people who shed pounds through diet and exercise usually experience a less rapid creep back—around 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
Explaining the Fast Rebound
Doctors propose the mechanism of the drugs is key to understanding the heightened regain.
These medications imitate a natural hormone called GLP-1, which controls hunger.
"Artificially providing the hormone levels far above than the body's typical production may cause the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and could diminish responsiveness to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Withdrawal of this medication leads to hunger is uncontrolled, making binge eating much more probable."
A Lifelong Issue?
Health authorities suggest the jabs for people with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
Professionals contend that, given the likelihood of weight regain, the treatment is often life-long.
This opinion is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the results "underscore the long-term character of obesity," similar to managing diseases like diabetes.
User Accounts
Users who have come off the jabs report a powerful return of hunger.
"It felt as if something flipping and you're instantly starving," recalled a patient.
This difficulty is exacerbated if users have not established sustainable dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Widespread Interest
Survey data indicate that millions of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with desire being substantial.
- Use is higher among women compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Finally, experts caution that while the jabs are effective tools for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent cure and long-term success likely depends on ongoing lifestyle support.
