Fresh analysis suggests that individuals who come off popular slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide may regain shed pounds far faster than those who end conventional lifestyle plans.
Findings released in a leading health publication points out that while overweight people frequently drop a large proportion of their total mass while using the jabs, the mass is regained at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"People buying such drugs need to be informed of the danger of fast weight regain when the therapy ends," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain suggests a reversion to original mass within about a year and a half.
Weighing Therapies
The research, which examined 37 of trials involving thousands of participants, compared the effects of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
The team emphasize that people who shed pounds through diet and exercise usually experience a less rapid creep back—around 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
Explaining the Quick Rebound
Experts suggest the way of the jabs explains the heightened rebound.
These medications mimic a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls appetite.
"Long-term administration of the hormone levels far above than normal might result in the body to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and could lessen responsiveness to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement results in hunger is uncontrolled, making excessive eating a significant risk."
A Chronic Condition?
Health authorities advise the injections for people with obesity-related health risks, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts say that, due to the likelihood of relapse, the therapy is often ongoing.
This perspective is supported by drug manufacturers, who say that the findings "highlight the chronic nature of obesity," comparing it to managing diseases like hypertension.
Patient Testimonies
Individuals who have stopped the jabs explain a intense return of cravings.
"It felt as if a switch that goes on and I was suddenly ravenous," recalled one woman.
This difficulty is exacerbated if individuals have not established sustainable lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Widespread Use
Figures show that millions of people in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with desire being substantial.
- Adoption is greater among women compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, experts caution that while GLP-1 drugs are effective agents for shedding pounds, they are not a magic fix and long-term success relies on ongoing lifestyle support.
