Users Discontinuing Slimming Injections Regain Weight Far More Rapidly Compared to People Using Diet and Exercise

A recent study suggests that people who come off new slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on shed pounds much more quickly than those who stop conventional diet and exercise plans.

Research printed in a leading health publication shows that while obese people can lose substantial amounts of their total mass while using the jabs, the weight returns at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.

"People using these medications must be aware of the risk of quick weight regain when the medication ends," stated researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.

This pace of recovery means a return to pre-treatment weight in about one and a half years.

Comparing Approaches

The study, which examined 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the results of these new drugs with conventional dieting.

Researchers note that people who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone typically see a less rapid creep back—approximately 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.

The Reason for the Quick Rebound

Nutrition scientists believe the mechanism of the jabs is key to understanding the accelerated regain.

The injections copy a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.

"Artificially providing the hormone levels far above than the body's typical production could lead to the system to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and could reduce sensitivity to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.

"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement leads to appetite is uncontrolled, making binge eating far more likely."

An Ongoing Issue?

Medical guidelines advise the jabs for people with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.

A number of clinicians say that, given the significant potential of weight regain, the therapy is often ongoing.

This perspective is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the findings "underscore the persistent nature of excess weight," comparing it to managing diseases like hypertension.

Patient Experiences

Individuals who have stopped the medication describe a powerful return of cravings.

"It was like a trigger flipping and I was suddenly extremely hungry," said a patient.

This challenge is exacerbated if individuals have not adopted lasting lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.

Significant Interest

Recent estimates show that millions of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with demand continuing to grow.

• Use is higher among females compared to men.
• The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest usage rates.
• A large proportion obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.

Ultimately, experts caution that while the jabs are potent agents for weight loss, they are not a permanent solution and maintained weight loss likely depends on combined lifestyle changes.