New research reveals that patients who stop using popular slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on lost weight much more quickly than those who halt conventional lifestyle plans.
Findings released in a prominent medical journal demonstrates that while overweight individuals can lose about a fifth of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the mass comes back at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"People buying such treatments should be cognizant of the potential of rapid weight regain when the therapy concludes," stated researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery suggests a reversion to pre-treatment mass within about a year and a half.
Comparing Approaches
The research, which looked at 37 of studies involving thousands of patients, contrasted the effects of GLP-1 agonists with older methods.
The team point out that people who lose weight through diet and exercise usually experience a slower creep back—around 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
The Reason for the Fast Regain
Nutrition scientists propose the mechanism of the injections explains the heightened weight return.
The injections mimic a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which controls appetite.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone levels several times higher than the body's typical production might result in the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and could lessen responsiveness to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Discontinuation of this medication leads to appetite is no longer kept in check, making binge eating a significant risk."
An Ongoing Issue?
The NHS recommend the injections for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals contend that, considering the high risk of weight regain, the treatment should be considered life-long.
This view is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the results "highlight the persistent nature of obesity," similar to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
Patient Testimonies
People who have stopped the medication report a intense resurgence of hunger.
"It was like something activating and I was suddenly extremely hungry," said one woman.
This difficulty is exacerbated if users have not adopted sustainable dietary or behavioural modifications during treatment.
Growing Adoption
Recent estimates indicate that millions of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with interest remaining high.
- Adoption is more common among women than men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Ultimately, researchers emphasize that while the jabs are effective agents for weight loss, they are not a standalone fix and long-term success relies on integrated behavioural management.
