New research indicates that patients who come off blockbuster slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on reduced body mass far faster than those who stop conventional lifestyle plans.
Findings released in a leading medical journal demonstrates that while obese individuals can lose about a fifth of their body weight while on the medication, the weight is regained at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"People purchasing such medications must be cognizant of the danger of rapid rebound weight gain when the therapy concludes," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery implies a reversion to pre-treatment mass in about 18 months.
Analyzing Treatments
The study, which examined 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the results of GLP-1 agonists with older methods.
Researchers point out that individuals who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone generally see a less rapid weight regain—around 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
The Reason for the Rapid Regain
Experts believe the way of the injections explains the accelerated rebound.
GLP-1 drugs copy a natural hormone called GLP-1, which controls appetite.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 levels far above than the body's typical production might result in the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and may also lessen sensitivity to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement means appetite is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating a significant risk."
A Chronic Disease?
The NHS recommend the injections for people with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians contend that, given the high risk of relapse, the treatment might need to be ongoing.
This view is echoed by drug manufacturers, who say that the results "highlight the persistent nature of obesity," akin to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Accounts
Users who have discontinued the medication report a sudden resurgence of cravings.
"I experienced something that goes on and you become ravenous," described a patient.
The struggle is worsened if individuals have not adopted permanent lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Significant Interest
Recent estimates show that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with demand remaining high.
- Adoption is higher among females compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest usage rates.
- Many obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Finally, researchers caution that while GLP-1 drugs are potent tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent solution and maintained weight loss hinges on ongoing behavioural management.
