A recent study suggests that people who come off blockbuster slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide may regain lost weight far faster than those who end conventional lifestyle plans.
Research printed in a leading medical journal demonstrates that while obese people frequently drop substantial amounts of their total mass while on the medication, the mass is regained at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Users purchasing these drugs should be cognizant of the danger of rapid rebound weight gain when the therapy ends," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain means a return to starting weight in about one and a half years.
Analyzing Approaches
The study, which looked at dozens of trials involving thousands of participants, compared the outcomes of GLP-1 agonists with older methods.
Researchers note that people who shed pounds through diet and exercise generally see a more gradual creep back—around 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
The Reason for the Rapid Regain
Nutrition scientists propose the way of the drugs is key to understanding the accelerated regain.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a natural hormone called GLP-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing the hormone levels several times higher than normal could lead to the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and may also reduce responsiveness to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement results in hunger is unsuppressed, making binge eating much more probable."
A Chronic Issue?
Health authorities advise the injections for individuals with weight-linked health risks, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
Professionals argue that, given the likelihood of relapse, the treatment might need to be ongoing.
This view is echoed by drug manufacturers, who note that the results "highlight the long-term nature of obesity," similar to managing conditions like diabetes.
User Experiences
Users who have stopped the jabs explain a intense return of hunger.
"It was like something flipping and you're instantly ravenous," recalled one woman.
This challenge is worsened if patients have not established lasting dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Significant Use
Figures show that a significant number of people in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with desire being substantial.
- Use is higher among women compared to men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many access the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Finally, experts emphasize that while GLP-1 drugs are potent agents for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone solution and long-term success likely depends on ongoing behavioural support.
