New research reveals that individuals who discontinue popular slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide may regain reduced body mass much more quickly than those who end conventional diet and exercise regimens.
Published data in a major health publication demonstrates that while overweight people often shed a large proportion of their body weight while using the jabs, the weight comes back at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"People buying these medications should be cognizant of the potential of quick rebound weight gain when the therapy ends," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery means a reversion to original weight within about a year and a half.
Weighing Therapies
The study, which reviewed dozens of studies involving thousands of participants, compared the results of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
Scientists note that people who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone usually experience a more gradual weight regain—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Understanding the Rapid Rebound
Experts propose the mechanism of the drugs explains the heightened rebound.
The injections imitate a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing the hormone levels several times higher than normal may cause the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and could lessen sensitivity to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' results in appetite is uncontrolled, making excessive eating much more probable."
A Chronic Issue?
Health authorities recommend the injections for individuals with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians argue that, due to the high risk of relapse, the treatment is often ongoing.
This view is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the findings "emphasize the long-term nature of obesity," akin to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
User Accounts
Users who have come off the jabs describe a powerful return of hunger.
"It was like a trigger activating and you become extremely hungry," recalled an individual.
This challenge is compounded if users have not adopted permanent dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Widespread Interest
Figures show that millions of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with desire remaining high.
- Adoption is higher among females than males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- Many obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Finally, researchers stress that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful tools for weight loss, they are not a magic solution and maintained weight loss likely depends on integrated behavioural management.
