A recent study indicates that individuals who stop using blockbuster slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on lost weight far faster than those who end conventional lifestyle plans.
Research printed in a major health publication points out that while overweight individuals frequently drop a large proportion of their total mass while on the medication, the mass comes back at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Users buying such drugs need to be informed of the potential of quick rebound weight gain when the medication ends," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain means a reversion to starting weight within about one and a half years.
Weighing Treatments
The research, which examined dozens of trials involving thousands of patients, contrasted the results of the injectable medications with other pills.
Scientists point out that individuals who shed pounds through dieting generally experience a less rapid weight regain—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Explaining the Quick Regain
Doctors propose the mechanism of the drugs is key to understanding the accelerated regain.
The injections copy a natural hormone called GLP-1, which moderates hunger.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone concentrations several times higher than normal may cause the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and could reduce responsiveness to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Withdrawal of this medication means appetite is uncontrolled, making overeating far more likely."
An Ongoing Issue?
Health authorities suggest the injections for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts contend that, due to the significant potential of relapse, the treatment might need to be life-long.
This perspective is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the results "highlight the chronic nature of obesity," akin to managing diseases like diabetes.
User Accounts
Users who have discontinued the jabs describe a intense resurgence of appetite.
"I experienced a switch that goes on and I was suddenly extremely hungry," recalled an individual.
The struggle is exacerbated if users have not adopted lasting lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Significant Interest
Survey data indicate that millions of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with desire continuing to grow.
- Use is greater among women than males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, experts caution that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent cure and maintained weight loss likely depends on ongoing behavioural management.
