A recent study indicates that individuals who discontinue new slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide tend to recover shed pounds far faster than those who halt conventional diet and exercise regimens.
Published data in a prominent medical journal points out that while overweight people often shed 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 medications should be cognizant of the risk of fast weight regain when the medication is stopped," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery means a return to original mass in about 18 months.
Weighing Therapies
The analysis, which examined 37 of studies involving thousands of patients, contrasted the outcomes of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
The team emphasize that individuals who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone usually see a less rapid creep back—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Explaining the Quick Rebound
Nutrition scientists believe the way of the jabs accounts for the amplified weight return.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which helps regulate hunger.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone levels far above than normal may cause the body to produce less of its own natural hormone, and may also reduce sensitivity to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' leads to hunger is uncontrolled, making binge eating far more likely."
A Chronic Condition?
Health authorities advise the injections for people with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals contend that, considering the significant potential of relapse, the treatment might need to be long-term.
This opinion is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who state that the findings "emphasize the long-term nature of excess weight," similar to managing diseases like diabetes.
User Experiences
Users who have come off the jabs report a sudden return of appetite.
"It felt as if a switch activating and I was suddenly extremely hungry," said an individual.
This challenge is compounded if users have not adopted lasting dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Widespread Interest
Recent estimates show that millions of people in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with interest being substantial.
- Use is higher among women compared to males.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest usage rates.
- Many access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Ultimately, researchers caution that while the jabs are potent tools for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone cure and lasting health benefits hinges on integrated behavioural changes.
