A recent study suggests that individuals who come off popular slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide tend to recover reduced body mass at a significantly accelerated pace than those who end traditional lifestyle plans.
Published data in a major health publication points out that while obese people often shed about a fifth of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the weight comes back at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"People buying such treatments should be informed of the potential of fast rebound weight gain when the medication is stopped," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain implies a return to original weight within about one and a half years.
Weighing Treatments
The study, which examined dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the results of these new drugs with older methods.
Researchers emphasize that individuals who lose weight through dieting usually have a more gradual weight regain—approximately 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
Explaining the Fast Regain
Doctors believe the way of the jabs explains the accelerated rebound.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a natural hormone called GLP-1, which controls hunger.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 levels several times higher than the body's typical production might result in the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and could lessen sensitivity to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Withdrawal of this medication means hunger is no longer kept in check, making overeating far more likely."
An Ongoing Disease?
Medical guidelines suggest the injections for people with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians contend that, due to the high risk of relapse, the treatment should be considered long-term.
This opinion is supported by drug manufacturers, who say that the results "emphasize the long-term character of obesity," comparing it to managing conditions like hypertension.
Patient Testimonies
Individuals who have come off the jabs describe a powerful resurgence of cravings.
"I experienced a trigger flipping and I was suddenly ravenous," said a patient.
The struggle is exacerbated if patients have not adopted sustainable dietary or behavioural modifications during treatment.
Growing Adoption
Figures show that a significant number of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with demand continuing to grow.
- Use is higher among women than males.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Finally, researchers stress that while GLP-1 drugs are potent tools for weight loss, they are not a magic cure and lasting health benefits likely depends on combined lifestyle changes.
