New research suggests that people who discontinue new slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on lost weight much more quickly than those who end conventional lifestyle plans.
Findings released in a prominent health publication points out that while overweight individuals can lose about a fifth of their body weight while on the medication, the mass returns at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"People using these treatments should be cognizant of the potential of fast rebound weight gain when the therapy concludes," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain implies a return to original mass in about a year and a half.
Comparing Approaches
The study, which reviewed dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the effects of these new drugs with other pills.
The team emphasize that people who shed pounds through dieting typically have a slower weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
Understanding the Quick Regain
Doctors propose the way of the drugs is key to understanding the accelerated regain.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates appetite.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 levels far above than the body's typical production may cause the body to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also reduce responsiveness to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Withdrawal of this medication results in appetite is uncontrolled, making excessive eating far more likely."
A Lifelong Condition?
The NHS recommend the jabs for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals say that, given the high risk of weight regain, the therapy should be considered ongoing.
This opinion is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the findings "underscore the chronic character of obesity," comparing it to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
Patient Experiences
Users who have discontinued the jabs report a powerful return of appetite.
"It felt as if a trigger flipping and I was suddenly extremely hungry," said a patient.
This challenge is compounded if users have not adopted sustainable dietary or behavioural modifications during treatment.
Significant Adoption
Recent estimates show that millions of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with desire remaining high.
- Use is more common among women than males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, experts stress that while the jabs are powerful agents for shedding pounds, they are not a magic fix and maintained weight loss hinges on integrated lifestyle management.
