Fresh analysis suggests that patients who stop using popular slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on shed pounds much more quickly than those who end traditional lifestyle plans.
Published data in a leading medical journal points out that while overweight individuals frequently drop a large proportion of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the mass comes back at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"People purchasing these medications need to be aware of the danger of rapid rebound weight gain when the treatment ends," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery suggests a reversion to starting mass in about one and a half years.
Analyzing Therapies
The study, which examined 37 of trials involving thousands of participants, contrasted the effects of the injectable medications with older methods.
The team note that people who lose weight through diet and exercise generally see a slower weight regain—approximately 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
Understanding the Rapid Rebound
Doctors propose the mode of action of the jabs accounts for the accelerated regain.
The injections copy a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of the hormone levels 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 could lessen responsiveness to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Discontinuation of this medication results in appetite is uncontrolled, making excessive eating far more likely."
A Chronic Issue?
Medical guidelines recommend the jabs for individuals with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians contend that, considering the likelihood of weight regain, the therapy is often long-term.
This opinion is echoed by drug manufacturers, who note that the findings "underscore the chronic character of obesity," akin to managing conditions like hypertension.
Patient Accounts
People who have discontinued the medication describe a sudden resurgence of hunger.
"It was like a trigger activating and you're instantly ravenous," said an individual.
The struggle is exacerbated if users have not established permanent dietary or behavioural modifications during treatment.
Widespread Adoption
Recent estimates suggest that a significant number of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with interest remaining high.
- Use is higher among women than males.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, experts emphasize that while these medications are potent agents for weight loss, they are not a permanent cure and long-term success hinges on combined behavioural changes.
