Fresh analysis reveals that individuals who discontinue new slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on lost weight at a significantly accelerated pace than those who halt traditional lifestyle plans.
Research printed in a major medical journal points out that while obese people often shed a large proportion of their total mass while using the jabs, the weight returns at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"People using these treatments need to be aware of the danger of fast weight regain when the therapy ends," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain suggests a reversion to pre-treatment weight within about a year and a half.
Weighing Treatments
The research, which examined dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the effects of GLP-1 agonists with older methods.
Researchers point out that people who lose weight through diet and exercise typically see a less rapid creep back—approximately 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
The Reason for the Fast Rebound
Nutrition scientists suggest the mode of action of the drugs accounts for the amplified regain.
The injections mimic a natural hormone called GLP-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 levels several times higher than normal might result in the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and may also lessen sensitivity to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Withdrawal of this GLP-1 'fix' means appetite is uncontrolled, making excessive eating a significant risk."
A Chronic Disease?
Health authorities advise the injections for individuals with weight-linked health risks, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
Professionals contend that, given the high risk of relapse, the therapy is often long-term.
This perspective is supported by drug manufacturers, who state that the findings "emphasize the persistent nature of obesity," similar to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Accounts
Users who have come off the medication describe a powerful return of appetite.
"I experienced something activating and you become ravenous," said a patient.
This challenge is compounded if users have not developed lasting dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Widespread Interest
Figures show that a significant number of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with demand continuing to grow.
- Adoption is higher among females than men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, clinicians emphasize that while these medications are powerful agents for weight loss, they are not a standalone fix and maintained weight loss relies on combined behavioural support.
