A recent study suggests that individuals who come off new slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on shed pounds much more quickly than those who halt conventional lifestyle programs.
Findings released in a major health publication shows that while obese people frequently drop a large proportion of their body weight while on the medication, the mass returns at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"People using these drugs need to be informed of the risk of rapid rebound weight gain when the medication ends," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain implies a return to original mass within about 18 months.
Analyzing Approaches
The study, which looked at dozens of studies involving thousands of patients, compared the effects of these new drugs with older methods.
Scientists emphasize that people who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone generally experience a more gradual weight regain—approximately 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
Explaining the Rapid Regain
Nutrition scientists propose the mode of action of the drugs explains the amplified weight return.
The injections copy a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates hunger.
"Long-term administration of the hormone concentrations far above than the body's typical production could lead to the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also reduce sensitivity to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Discontinuation of this GLP-1 'fix' means hunger is no longer kept in check, making overeating much more probable."
An Ongoing Disease?
The NHS advise the jabs for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Many experts say that, considering the significant potential of weight regain, the therapy might need to be long-term.
This perspective is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the results "highlight the persistent nature of obesity," akin to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Experiences
Individuals who have stopped the medication describe a powerful return of hunger.
"It felt as if a trigger activating and you're instantly ravenous," said a patient.
This difficulty is exacerbated if users have not adopted permanent dietary or behavioural modifications during treatment.
Significant Interest
Recent estimates indicate that millions of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with desire remaining high.
- Adoption is more common among females than men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, clinicians emphasize that while GLP-1 drugs are effective tools for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent fix and lasting health benefits hinges on integrated lifestyle management.
