Fresh analysis reveals that patients who discontinue new slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide may regain lost weight far faster than those who halt traditional diet and exercise programs.
Published data in a leading medical journal points out that while overweight individuals frequently drop a large proportion of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the weight returns at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"People using such drugs need to be informed of the risk of rapid weight regain when the treatment concludes," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain implies a reversion to original mass within about one and a half years.
Comparing Treatments
The analysis, which reviewed 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the outcomes of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
Researchers note that people who lose weight through dieting typically see a more gradual weight regain—perhaps 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
The Reason for the Rapid Regain
Doctors believe the way of the drugs is key to understanding the amplified weight return.
The injections imitate a natural hormone called GLP-1, which controls hunger.
"Long-term administration of the hormone concentrations several times higher than normal could lead to the body to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and could lessen responsiveness to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement means hunger is uncontrolled, making binge eating much more probable."
A Lifelong Condition?
Health authorities suggest the injections for people with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians say that, considering the likelihood of relapse, the treatment should be considered long-term.
This opinion is supported by drug manufacturers, who note that the results "highlight the chronic nature of obesity," akin to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
Patient Experiences
Users who have come off the medication describe a powerful return of hunger.
"I experienced a switch flipping and you become extremely hungry," recalled one woman.
This difficulty is compounded if patients have not established sustainable dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Growing Use
Survey data suggest that millions of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with interest remaining high.
- Adoption is greater among women than males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, experts stress that while GLP-1 drugs are potent agents for shedding pounds, they are not a magic fix and maintained weight loss likely depends on integrated behavioural management.
