A recent study indicates that individuals who discontinue new slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on shed pounds much more quickly than those who end conventional diet and exercise plans.
Published data in a leading medical journal demonstrates that while obese individuals can lose a large proportion of their body weight while using the jabs, the weight returns at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Individuals buying such drugs must be aware of the potential of fast rebound weight gain when the treatment ends," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain suggests a return to pre-treatment weight in about 18 months.
Weighing Therapies
The study, which looked at dozens of trials involving thousands of participants, contrasted the outcomes of GLP-1 agonists with other pills.
The team emphasize that individuals who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone typically have a more gradual weight regain—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Explaining the Fast Rebound
Doctors suggest the mode of action of the jabs is key to understanding the accelerated weight return.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate hunger.
"Long-term administration of the hormone levels far above than the body's typical production may cause the body to produce less of its own natural hormone, and may also diminish responsiveness to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' results in appetite is uncontrolled, making binge eating far more likely."
An Ongoing Condition?
Health authorities recommend the injections for people with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians say that, given the likelihood of weight regain, the treatment should be considered ongoing.
This opinion is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the findings "highlight the long-term nature of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like diabetes.
Patient Accounts
Individuals who have discontinued the jabs describe a sudden resurgence of hunger.
"It felt as if something that goes on and I was suddenly ravenous," said one woman.
The struggle is worsened if individuals have not established permanent dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Growing Use
Figures show that millions of people in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with desire continuing to grow.
- Adoption is greater among women compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many access the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Finally, clinicians stress that while GLP-1 drugs are effective tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent fix and long-term success hinges on combined lifestyle management.
