A recent study suggests that patients who come off popular slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on shed pounds much more quickly than those who stop conventional diet and exercise plans.
Research printed in a prominent health publication shows that while obese individuals often shed a large proportion of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the mass is regained at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Users using such drugs must be informed of the risk of quick rebound weight gain when the therapy is stopped," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain implies a return to pre-treatment mass within about one and a half years.
Comparing Treatments
The research, which reviewed dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the results of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
Researchers emphasize that individuals who shed pounds through dieting usually experience a less rapid weight regain—approximately 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
Explaining the Fast Rebound
Experts suggest the mode of action of the jabs is key to understanding the amplified weight return.
These medications mimic a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates appetite.
"Long-term administration of the hormone concentrations far above than normal may cause the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and may also diminish sensitivity to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement results in hunger is uncontrolled, making overeating far more likely."
A Lifelong Issue?
Health authorities suggest the jabs for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
Many experts say that, given the likelihood of relapse, the treatment might need to be long-term.
This view is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the results "highlight the long-term nature of excess weight," similar to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
Patient Accounts
Individuals who have discontinued the medication describe a powerful resurgence of hunger.
"It felt as if a trigger that goes on and you're instantly extremely hungry," described an individual.
The struggle is worsened if patients have not adopted lasting dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Significant Use
Figures show that a significant number of people in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with demand being substantial.
- Adoption is more common among females than males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion access the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Finally, clinicians stress that while the jabs are effective tools for weight loss, they are not a standalone cure and long-term success likely depends on combined behavioural support.
