A recent study indicates that people who come off new slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide may regain shed pounds much more quickly than those who end conventional lifestyle plans.
Research printed in a major health publication points out that while obese people can lose a large proportion of their body weight while using the jabs, the mass comes back at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Users using such drugs must be informed of the danger of quick weight regain when the treatment concludes," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain suggests a return to starting weight within about one and a half years.
Analyzing Approaches
The research, which reviewed dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the results of GLP-1 agonists with older methods.
The team point out that individuals who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone generally have a more gradual creep back—approximately 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
Explaining the Rapid Rebound
Experts propose the mechanism of the drugs accounts for the amplified rebound.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls hunger.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 concentrations far above than normal may cause the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and could lessen sensitivity to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement means appetite is no longer kept in check, making overeating much more probable."
A Lifelong Condition?
Medical guidelines advise the jabs for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
Many experts say that, due to the likelihood of weight regain, the therapy should be considered long-term.
This opinion is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the findings "highlight the chronic nature of excess weight," comparing it to managing conditions like diabetes.
Patient Experiences
Individuals who have discontinued the jabs describe a sudden return of hunger.
"It felt as if a trigger flipping and I was suddenly extremely hungry," recalled a patient.
The struggle is compounded if users have not established permanent lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Widespread Adoption
Recent estimates show that millions of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with desire remaining high.
- Use is more common among females than males.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, experts stress that while the jabs are effective agents for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone solution and long-term success hinges on ongoing behavioural management.
