Fresh analysis suggests that people who come off new slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on shed pounds at a significantly accelerated pace than those who halt conventional diet and exercise regimens.
Research printed in a leading health publication shows that while obese individuals often shed about a fifth of their body weight while on the medication, the mass returns at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Individuals buying these medications must be aware of the danger of quick rebound weight gain when the therapy is stopped," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery suggests a reversion to original weight within about 18 months.
Analyzing Therapies
The study, which examined 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the outcomes of these new drugs with other pills.
The team emphasize that people who lose weight through diet and exercise typically experience a slower weight regain—around 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
The Reason for the Rapid Rebound
Experts believe the mechanism of the injections explains the amplified weight return.
These medications copy a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates appetite.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 levels several times higher than normal could lead to the system to produce less of its own natural hormone, and may also diminish responsiveness to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Stopping of this medication results in appetite is no longer kept in check, making overeating much more probable."
An Ongoing Condition?
Health authorities recommend the injections for people with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals contend that, given the likelihood of relapse, the therapy should be considered ongoing.
This view is supported by drug manufacturers, who say that the findings "underscore the chronic nature of obesity," akin to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
User Testimonies
Users who have discontinued the medication describe a powerful return of cravings.
"I experienced something activating and you're instantly ravenous," recalled one woman.
This difficulty is exacerbated if users have not established permanent lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Significant Use
Figures show that millions of adults in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with interest being substantial.
- Use is more common among females compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- Many access the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
In conclusion, clinicians caution that while the jabs are potent agents for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone fix and maintained weight loss relies on integrated lifestyle changes.
