New research suggests that individuals who discontinue popular slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on shed pounds much more quickly than those who stop traditional lifestyle plans.
Published data in a major medical journal points out that while overweight people can lose a large proportion of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the mass is regained at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Individuals purchasing these drugs need to be aware of the risk of rapid weight regain when the medication ends," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery suggests a reversion to original weight within about 18 months.
Analyzing Treatments
The analysis, which examined 37 of trials involving thousands of participants, contrasted the results of these new drugs with other pills.
The team point out that people who shed pounds through diet and exercise usually see a slower weight regain—around 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
The Reason for the Quick Regain
Nutrition scientists suggest the mechanism of the jabs accounts for the heightened weight return.
These medications copy a natural hormone called GLP-1, which controls appetite.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone levels several times higher than the body's typical production could lead to the body to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and may also diminish responsiveness to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement means appetite is unsuppressed, making binge eating far more likely."
An Ongoing Disease?
Medical guidelines recommend the injections for individuals with obesity-related health risks, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals say that, due to the high risk of relapse, the therapy should be considered life-long.
This view is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the findings "emphasize the persistent character of excess weight," akin to managing conditions like diabetes.
User Testimonies
Users who have come off the jabs explain a powerful resurgence of hunger.
"I experienced something that goes on and I was suddenly ravenous," said one woman.
This challenge is compounded if individuals have not developed lasting lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Widespread Use
Survey data show that a significant number of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with demand continuing to grow.
- Adoption is higher among females compared to men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Ultimately, researchers emphasize that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful tools for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone solution and long-term success hinges on combined lifestyle support.
