Fresh analysis reveals that people who discontinue popular slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide may regain reduced body mass far faster than those who end traditional diet and exercise programs.
Published data in a leading health publication demonstrates that while overweight people can lose a large proportion of their total mass while using the jabs, the weight returns at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Users purchasing these treatments should be cognizant of the risk of fast rebound weight gain when the medication is stopped," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain means a return to pre-treatment weight within about a year and a half.
Weighing Therapies
The analysis, which looked at dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the results of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
Scientists point out that people who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone usually experience a more gradual creep back—around 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
The Reason for the Rapid Rebound
Nutrition scientists suggest the mode of action of the injections is key to understanding the accelerated rebound.
These medications mimic a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which controls hunger.
"Long-term administration of the hormone concentrations several times higher than normal could lead to the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and could diminish responsiveness to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' means hunger is uncontrolled, making excessive eating much more probable."
A Chronic Disease?
Medical guidelines suggest the injections for individuals with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians say that, considering the high risk of relapse, the treatment is often life-long.
This opinion is echoed by drug manufacturers, who say that the results "underscore the long-term nature of obesity," akin to managing conditions like diabetes.
User Accounts
Users who have come off the medication report a sudden return of hunger.
"I experienced a trigger that goes on and you're instantly starving," said an individual.
The struggle is worsened if patients have not adopted permanent lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Growing Interest
Recent estimates indicate that a significant number of people in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with desire remaining high.
- Use is greater among females compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many access the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Finally, experts emphasize that while these medications are potent tools for weight loss, they are not a standalone solution and long-term success relies on ongoing behavioural changes.
