New research indicates that people who stop using new slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on lost weight at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop traditional diet and exercise programs.
Research printed in a major medical journal points out that while overweight individuals frequently drop about a fifth of their body weight while on the medication, the weight returns at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"Individuals purchasing these drugs need to be aware of the danger of quick weight regain when the treatment concludes," stated lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain means a return to starting weight within about a year and a half.
Weighing Therapies
The research, which looked at dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the outcomes of these new drugs with older methods.
Scientists note that individuals who shed pounds through dieting usually see a slower weight regain—around 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Explaining the Rapid Regain
Nutrition scientists believe the mechanism of the jabs is key to understanding the amplified regain.
These medications copy a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing the hormone levels far above than the body's typical production might result in the body to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and may also diminish sensitivity to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Withdrawal of this medication leads to hunger is unsuppressed, making overeating a significant risk."
A Lifelong Condition?
Medical guidelines suggest the injections for people with obesity-related health risks, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals say that, due to the likelihood of relapse, the therapy should be considered long-term.
This opinion is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the findings "underscore the long-term character of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
Patient Accounts
People who have discontinued the medication explain a sudden return of cravings.
"It was like a switch flipping and you're instantly starving," recalled one woman.
The struggle is compounded if users have not developed sustainable lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Growing Interest
Recent estimates indicate that a significant number of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with desire continuing to grow.
- Adoption is more common among women compared to males.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest usage rates.
- Many access the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, experts stress that while the jabs are effective agents for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent fix and long-term success relies on integrated lifestyle support.
