Fresh analysis reveals that individuals who stop using popular slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide may regain reduced body mass much more quickly than those who halt conventional lifestyle regimens.
Research printed in a prominent medical journal shows that while overweight people often shed about a fifth of their body weight while using the jabs, the mass is regained at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"Individuals using such medications should be aware of the risk of rapid weight regain when the medication is stopped," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain implies a reversion to original mass in about 18 months.
Weighing Approaches
The research, which examined dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the outcomes of these new drugs with other pills.
The team emphasize that people who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone typically experience a slower creep back—perhaps 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
Understanding the Rapid Regain
Doctors suggest the way of the jabs accounts for the amplified weight return.
These medications mimic a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which controls appetite.
"Artificially providing the hormone levels far above than normal may cause the body to produce less of its own natural hormone, and could diminish sensitivity to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' results in appetite is no longer kept in check, making overeating a significant risk."
A Chronic Condition?
Medical guidelines advise the injections for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts argue that, given the likelihood of relapse, the treatment might need to be life-long.
This view is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who state that the findings "emphasize the chronic character of obesity," akin to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
User Experiences
Users who have stopped the jabs report a sudden return of appetite.
"It felt as if a trigger flipping and you're instantly starving," said an individual.
The struggle is worsened if users have not developed lasting lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Widespread Use
Survey data suggest that a significant number of people in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with demand continuing to grow.
- Adoption is more common among women than males.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion access the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, clinicians stress that while the jabs are effective agents for weight loss, they are not a magic solution and maintained weight loss relies on combined behavioural changes.
