A recent study reveals that patients who come off 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 plans.
Findings released in a prominent medical journal points out that while overweight individuals can lose a large proportion of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the weight comes back at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Users buying these drugs must be informed of the risk of fast rebound weight gain when the treatment is stopped," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain implies a return to starting mass in about 18 months.
Analyzing Approaches
The research, which examined dozens of trials involving thousands of participants, compared the effects of GLP-1 agonists with conventional dieting.
The team point out that people who lose weight through diet and exercise typically see a less rapid creep back—perhaps 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
Explaining the Quick Rebound
Doctors propose the way of the injections accounts for the accelerated regain.
The injections imitate a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone concentrations far above than the body's typical production might result in the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and could reduce sensitivity to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' leads to hunger is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating a significant risk."
A Lifelong Issue?
The NHS recommend the injections for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
Many experts say that, due to the high risk of relapse, the treatment might need to be long-term.
This view is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the results "underscore the persistent nature of obesity," akin to managing diseases like diabetes.
User Accounts
Users who have come off the jabs report a intense resurgence of hunger.
"I experienced a trigger flipping and I was suddenly ravenous," recalled one woman.
This difficulty is compounded if patients have not developed sustainable lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Significant Use
Figures show that a significant number of adults in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with interest being substantial.
- Use is more common among women compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion access the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Finally, experts stress that while the jabs are powerful agents for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent fix and lasting health benefits hinges on integrated behavioural changes.
