A recent study reveals that individuals who come off popular slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide may regain reduced body mass much more quickly than those who stop traditional diet and exercise programs.
Research printed in a leading health publication points out that while overweight people often shed a large proportion of their body weight while on the medication, the weight comes back at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Individuals using these medications should be informed of the danger of fast rebound weight gain when the medication concludes," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain implies a return to original mass in about 18 months.
Analyzing Therapies
The study, which reviewed dozens of trials involving thousands of patients, compared the outcomes of GLP-1 agonists with older methods.
The team note that individuals who shed pounds through dieting typically experience a slower creep back—perhaps 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
Explaining the Fast Regain
Doctors propose the mode of action of the drugs accounts for the amplified regain.
The injections copy a natural hormone called GLP-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of the hormone levels far above than normal may cause the body to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and could diminish sensitivity to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement means hunger is uncontrolled, making excessive eating much more probable."
A Chronic Condition?
Health authorities suggest the injections for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
Many experts contend that, given the high risk of relapse, the treatment might need to be long-term.
This perspective is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who say that the results "highlight the chronic character of obesity," akin to managing conditions like hypertension.
User Experiences
People who have stopped the jabs report a intense resurgence of appetite.
"It was like a switch flipping and you're instantly extremely hungry," described an individual.
The struggle is exacerbated if individuals have not established sustainable lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Widespread Interest
Survey data suggest that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with interest being substantial.
- Adoption is greater among women than males.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Ultimately, researchers stress that while these medications are potent agents for shedding pounds, they are not a magic fix and long-term success relies on integrated lifestyle support.
