Users Discontinuing Slimming Jabs Regain Weight at a Quadrupled Rate Compared to People Using Diet and Exercise
New research reveals that patients who come off blockbuster slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide may regain shed pounds far faster than those who stop conventional diet and exercise regimens.
Findings released in a leading medical journal demonstrates that while overweight individuals can lose substantial amounts of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the weight is regained at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Individuals using these drugs should be informed of the risk of quick rebound weight gain when the therapy concludes," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery implies a reversion to starting mass in about one and a half years.
Weighing Approaches
The analysis, which looked at 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the results of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
The team point out that people who shed pounds through diet and exercise typically experience a slower creep back—approximately 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
Explaining the Fast Rebound
Experts propose the mode of action of the jabs explains the amplified rebound.
The injections imitate a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which helps regulate hunger.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 levels far above than normal may cause the system to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also diminish responsiveness to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Discontinuation of this medication leads to appetite is unsuppressed, making overeating far more likely."
An Ongoing Condition?
Health authorities advise the jabs for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
Professionals contend that, due to the high risk of weight regain, the therapy should be considered long-term.
This perspective is echoed by drug manufacturers, who note that the findings "highlight the chronic character of obesity," comparing it to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Testimonies
People who have stopped the jabs describe a sudden resurgence of appetite.
"It was like a switch flipping and you're instantly starving," described an individual.
This difficulty is compounded if users have not developed lasting dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Widespread Use
Recent estimates show that a significant number of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with interest being substantial.
- Use is greater among females than men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest usage rates.
- Many access the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, clinicians caution that while the jabs are powerful tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent fix and lasting health benefits hinges on combined behavioural changes.
