Fresh analysis suggests that people who come off new slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on reduced body mass much more quickly than those who halt conventional diet and exercise regimens.
Research printed in a leading medical journal shows that while obese people can lose about a fifth of their total mass while using the jabs, the weight returns at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Users buying these drugs must be cognizant of the danger of quick rebound weight gain when the therapy ends," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain means a reversion to original weight in about one and a half years.
Comparing Treatments
The study, which looked at 37 of trials involving thousands of participants, compared the outcomes of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
The team point out that individuals who lose weight through diet and exercise generally have a less rapid creep back—approximately 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
The Reason for the Fast Rebound
Doctors suggest the mechanism of the jabs accounts for the accelerated weight return.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 concentrations far above than the body's typical production may cause the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and may also diminish sensitivity to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement leads to appetite is uncontrolled, making excessive eating much more probable."
An Ongoing Condition?
Health authorities suggest the jabs for people with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians argue that, given the significant potential of weight regain, the therapy should be considered ongoing.
This opinion is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the results "underscore the persistent nature of obesity," similar to managing diseases like diabetes.
User Accounts
Users who have stopped the jabs describe a powerful resurgence of cravings.
"I experienced a switch activating and you're instantly ravenous," said one woman.
This difficulty is worsened if individuals have not adopted lasting dietary or behavioural modifications during treatment.
Widespread Adoption
Recent estimates indicate that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with desire being substantial.
- Use is greater among women than men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, clinicians stress that while the jabs are powerful agents for shedding pounds, they are not a magic fix and lasting health benefits hinges on integrated lifestyle changes.
