Users Stopping Slimming Jabs Regain Weight at a Quadrupled Rate Compared to Dieters

A recent study reveals that individuals who stop using popular slimming jabs like semaglutide or tirzepatide may regain lost weight far faster than those who halt conventional lifestyle programs.

Research printed in a prominent health publication points out that while overweight people can lose a large proportion of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the weight comes back at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.

"Individuals buying such medications should be aware of the risk of quick rebound weight gain when the therapy ends," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.

This pace of recovery implies a return to starting weight within about one and a half years.

Weighing Treatments

The study, which looked at 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the effects of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.

Scientists point out that individuals who shed pounds through diet and exercise typically see a less rapid weight regain—around 100 grams monthly—after stopping.

The Reason for the Fast Rebound

Nutrition scientists propose the mechanism of the injections accounts for the heightened regain.

The injections mimic a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls feelings of fullness.

"Sustained high doses of the hormone levels several times higher than the body's typical production might result in the body to produce less of its own natural hormone, and may also reduce sensitivity to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.

"Withdrawal of this GLP-1 'fix' results in hunger is uncontrolled, making excessive eating far more likely."

A Lifelong Issue?

Medical guidelines advise the injections for people with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.

Many experts say that, due to the high risk of relapse, the treatment should be considered ongoing.

This perspective is echoed by drug manufacturers, who say that the findings "highlight the long-term nature of obesity," akin to managing diseases like hypertension.

User Experiences

People who have come off the jabs report a intense return of cravings.

"I experienced a switch activating and you become starving," described an individual.

This difficulty is worsened if individuals have not adopted permanent dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.

Widespread Interest

Survey data indicate that millions of adults in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with interest being substantial.

• Adoption is greater among women than men.
• The middle-aged age group shows the greatest level of interest.
• A large proportion obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.

Ultimately, researchers emphasize that while the jabs are potent tools for shedding pounds, they are not a magic fix and maintained weight loss relies on combined lifestyle support.