A recent study reveals that patients who come off popular slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on reduced body mass much more quickly than those who stop traditional lifestyle programs.
Published data in a major health publication points out that while overweight individuals frequently drop about a fifth of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the weight comes back at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"People buying such medications need to be informed of the potential of rapid rebound weight gain when the treatment ends," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery suggests a return to original mass in about a year and a half.
Comparing Approaches
The research, which examined 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the results of the injectable medications with older methods.
Scientists note that individuals who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone usually see a slower creep back—approximately 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
Explaining the Rapid Rebound
Experts suggest the mode of action of the injections explains the amplified rebound.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of the hormone levels far above than normal might result in the body to produce less of its own natural hormone, and may also reduce responsiveness to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement means appetite is unsuppressed, making binge eating a significant risk."
An Ongoing Disease?
The NHS advise the jabs for people with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts contend that, considering the likelihood of relapse, the treatment might need to be life-long.
This view is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the results "emphasize the persistent nature of obesity," akin to managing conditions like hypertension.
Patient Experiences
Individuals who have discontinued the jabs describe a sudden return of cravings.
"It felt as if a switch that goes on and you're instantly extremely hungry," recalled a patient.
This difficulty is worsened if patients have not established lasting dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Growing Use
Recent estimates indicate that millions of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with interest continuing to grow.
- Use is more common among women than men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Finally, experts caution that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful agents for weight loss, they are not a permanent fix and long-term success hinges on ongoing behavioural management.
