New research reveals that patients who stop using blockbuster slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide tend to recover reduced body mass much more quickly than those who halt traditional lifestyle programs.
Research printed in a major health publication shows that while overweight individuals can lose a large proportion of their total mass while on the medication, the mass comes back at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"People using these treatments need to be informed of the risk of quick rebound weight gain when the therapy ends," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain means a return to original weight within about a year and a half.
Comparing Therapies
The research, which looked at 37 of trials involving thousands of patients, compared the effects of these new drugs with other pills.
Scientists note that individuals who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone generally see a slower weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
The Reason for the Fast Regain
Experts propose the mechanism of the drugs is key to understanding the heightened rebound.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 levels far above than normal might result in the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and may also diminish sensitivity to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement means hunger is uncontrolled, making overeating much more probable."
A Chronic Disease?
Medical guidelines advise the injections for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
Professionals contend that, considering the significant potential of weight regain, the treatment should be considered ongoing.
This view is echoed by drug manufacturers, who say that the findings "highlight the chronic nature of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like diabetes.
Patient Experiences
Users who have discontinued the jabs report a intense resurgence of appetite.
"It was like something that goes on and I was suddenly extremely hungry," recalled an individual.
This challenge is compounded if individuals have not established sustainable lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Significant Use
Recent estimates indicate that a significant number of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with desire continuing to grow.
- Use is more common among women compared to men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- Many access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, researchers stress that while the jabs are potent agents for weight loss, they are not a magic fix and long-term success relies on combined behavioural support.
