Patients Coming Off Anti-Obesity Jabs Put On Pounds at a Quadrupled Rate Than Those on Conventional Diets

A recent study suggests 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 diet and exercise plans.

Research printed in a prominent medical journal demonstrates that while obese people can lose 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.

"Users using such medications need to be cognizant of the risk of rapid weight regain when the medication is stopped," stated lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.

That rate of regain implies a return to pre-treatment weight in about 18 months.

Comparing Approaches

The study, which reviewed dozens of trials involving thousands of participants, contrasted the results of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.

The team point out that people who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone typically experience a more gradual creep back—approximately 100 grams monthly—after stopping.

Understanding the Fast Regain

Doctors suggest the mode of action of the drugs explains the heightened regain.

These medications imitate 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 might result in the body to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and could reduce sensitivity to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.

"Withdrawal of this medication means hunger is no longer kept in check, making binge eating a significant risk."

A Lifelong Disease?

Health authorities suggest the jabs for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.

Many experts say that, considering the significant potential of relapse, the treatment might need to be life-long.

This opinion is echoed by drug manufacturers, who note that the results "underscore the persistent nature of excess weight," similar to managing diseases like high blood pressure.

Patient Accounts

Individuals who have discontinued the jabs explain a sudden resurgence of cravings.

"It felt as if something flipping and I was suddenly extremely hungry," recalled an individual.

This difficulty is worsened if individuals have not developed lasting dietary or behavioural modifications during treatment.

Widespread Use

Recent estimates suggest that a significant number of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with interest being substantial.

• Use is higher among females than men.
• The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
• A large proportion access the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.

Ultimately, researchers stress that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful tools for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent cure and maintained weight loss likely depends on integrated behavioural changes.