New research reveals that people who stop using new slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide tend to recover shed pounds far faster than those who halt traditional lifestyle programs.
Findings released in a major medical journal points out that while overweight people frequently drop a large proportion of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the mass comes back at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"People buying these drugs should be cognizant of the risk of quick weight regain when the treatment concludes," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain means a return to pre-treatment weight in about a year and a half.
Comparing Approaches
The research, which reviewed dozens of trials involving thousands of patients, compared the results of these new drugs with other pills.
The team note that individuals who shed pounds through dieting typically see a less rapid creep back—around 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
Explaining the Quick Regain
Doctors believe the way of the jabs explains the amplified regain.
These medications copy a natural hormone called GLP-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than normal might result in the system to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and may also diminish sensitivity to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement leads to appetite is unsuppressed, making excessive eating a significant risk."
An Ongoing Issue?
Health authorities suggest the jabs for individuals with weight-linked health risks, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
Many experts say that, considering the likelihood of relapse, the therapy should be considered life-long.
This view is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the results "underscore the persistent character of obesity," similar to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
User Testimonies
Users who have come off the medication explain a powerful resurgence of cravings.
"I experienced a trigger that goes on and you become extremely hungry," said a patient.
This challenge is worsened if individuals have not adopted lasting lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Growing Use
Figures indicate that a significant number of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with desire continuing to grow.
- Adoption is greater among women 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.
Finally, researchers emphasize that while the jabs are powerful agents for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent solution and lasting health benefits relies on combined behavioural support.
