New research suggests that individuals who stop using blockbuster slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain shed pounds far faster than those who end traditional diet and exercise plans.
Research printed in a prominent medical journal points out that while obese individuals frequently drop about a fifth of their body weight while on the medication, the weight comes back at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Users purchasing such treatments should be aware of the danger of fast weight regain when the medication concludes," stated researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery means a return to original mass in about one and a half years.
Weighing Therapies
The study, which reviewed 37 of studies involving thousands of patients, contrasted the outcomes of the injectable medications with older methods.
Scientists note that individuals who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone usually experience a more gradual weight regain—around 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Explaining the Fast Regain
Doctors propose the way of the injections is key to understanding the heightened rebound.
GLP-1 drugs copy a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone levels far above than normal may cause the system to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and may also diminish responsiveness to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement means appetite is uncontrolled, making overeating much more probable."
A Lifelong Condition?
Medical guidelines advise the injections for individuals with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts contend that, considering the likelihood of weight regain, the therapy is often life-long.
This opinion is echoed by drug manufacturers, who state that the results "underscore the chronic character of excess weight," similar to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
Patient Accounts
People who have stopped the medication explain a powerful return of appetite.
"It was like a switch flipping and you're instantly extremely hungry," said one woman.
This challenge is compounded if individuals have not adopted lasting lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Growing Adoption
Figures suggest that a significant number of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with desire remaining high.
- Use is greater among females than males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, clinicians emphasize that while the jabs are effective agents for weight loss, they are not a magic fix and lasting health benefits likely depends on combined lifestyle changes.
