New research indicates that people who come off new slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide may regain shed pounds at a significantly accelerated pace than those who halt conventional lifestyle programs.
Research printed in a prominent health publication demonstrates that while obese people often shed a large proportion of their body weight while using the jabs, the weight comes back at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"People using these treatments must be cognizant of the potential of quick weight regain when the treatment concludes," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain suggests a reversion to pre-treatment weight in about a year and a half.
Weighing Therapies
The study, which looked at dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the effects of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
Researchers point out that individuals who shed pounds through diet and exercise generally have a more gradual creep back—approximately 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Explaining the Quick Regain
Experts suggest the mechanism of the jabs accounts for the accelerated regain.
The injections copy a natural hormone called GLP-1, which controls hunger.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 levels several times higher than the body's typical production might result in the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and could diminish sensitivity to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement results in appetite is uncontrolled, making overeating far more likely."
An Ongoing Issue?
Health authorities suggest the injections for individuals with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals contend that, considering the high risk of relapse, the therapy is often long-term.
This opinion is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the results "underscore the chronic character of excess weight," akin to managing conditions like hypertension.
Patient Experiences
Users who have stopped the medication report a sudden resurgence of cravings.
"I experienced a switch activating and you're instantly extremely hungry," recalled an individual.
This challenge is worsened if patients have not adopted permanent dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Significant Interest
Figures suggest that millions of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with desire remaining high.
- Adoption is higher among females than males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, clinicians emphasize that while GLP-1 drugs are potent tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent cure and maintained weight loss relies on combined behavioural changes.
