A recent study reveals that patients who come off popular slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide tend to recover lost weight much more quickly than those who stop traditional diet and exercise regimens.
Findings released in a major medical journal demonstrates that while obese people often shed substantial amounts of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the mass comes back at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"People purchasing these treatments need to be cognizant of the potential of fast weight regain when the treatment concludes," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery suggests a reversion to pre-treatment mass in about a year and a half.
Comparing Treatments
The research, which reviewed dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the outcomes of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
The team emphasize that people who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone generally experience a less rapid creep back—approximately 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
The Reason for the Quick Regain
Doctors propose the mode of action of the injections explains the amplified regain.
These medications imitate a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than normal might result in the body to produce less of its own natural hormone, and may also lessen sensitivity to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' results in hunger is uncontrolled, making binge eating a significant risk."
An Ongoing Condition?
The NHS advise the injections for people with obesity-related health risks, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
Professionals contend that, given the high risk of relapse, the therapy might need to be long-term.
This perspective is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the results "emphasize the long-term nature of excess weight," akin to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Testimonies
Individuals who have stopped the medication describe a sudden return of hunger.
"It felt as if something activating and you're instantly ravenous," said one woman.
This difficulty is compounded if users have not established sustainable dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Growing Interest
Figures show that a significant number of people in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with interest continuing to grow.
- Adoption is more common among females compared to men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many access the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, experts emphasize that while the jabs are effective tools for shedding pounds, they are not a magic solution and lasting health benefits likely depends on ongoing behavioural changes.
