Fresh analysis indicates that patients who stop using blockbuster slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide may regain lost weight far faster than those who stop conventional diet and exercise plans.
Published data in a prominent health publication shows that while obese individuals often shed a large proportion of their body weight while on the medication, the weight returns at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"People using these drugs should be aware of the danger of quick rebound weight gain when the medication concludes," stated researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain suggests a reversion to pre-treatment weight in about 18 months.
Analyzing Therapies
The study, which looked at dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the effects of the injectable medications with older methods.
The team note that people who shed pounds through dieting typically see a less rapid creep back—perhaps 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
Understanding the Rapid Regain
Doctors suggest the mode of action of the drugs is key to understanding the accelerated weight return.
These medications mimic a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which helps regulate hunger.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production could lead to the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and may also lessen responsiveness to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Withdrawal of this medication results in hunger is no longer kept in check, making binge eating much more probable."
A Lifelong Condition?
The NHS advise the jabs for individuals with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians say that, due to the significant potential of relapse, the therapy is often long-term.
This view is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the results "underscore the chronic nature of excess weight," comparing it to managing diseases like diabetes.
User Experiences
Users who have stopped the medication explain a intense resurgence of appetite.
"It felt as if a switch flipping and you're instantly starving," said a patient.
This difficulty is compounded if users have not established permanent dietary or behavioural modifications during treatment.
Growing Use
Survey data show that millions of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with interest remaining high.
- Use is greater among women compared to males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, experts emphasize that while the jabs are effective agents for weight loss, they are not a standalone cure and maintained weight loss relies on ongoing behavioural support.
