A recent study reveals that individuals who come off popular slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain shed pounds at a significantly accelerated pace than those who end conventional lifestyle programs.
Findings released in a prominent medical journal points out that while obese people frequently drop substantial amounts of their total mass while using the jabs, the weight is regained at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"People buying these treatments must be informed of the danger of fast rebound weight gain when the medication concludes," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery suggests a return to starting weight within about one and a half years.
Analyzing Treatments
The research, which looked at dozens of studies involving thousands of patients, compared the outcomes of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
Researchers note that individuals who lose weight through dieting usually experience a more gradual weight regain—around 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Explaining the Rapid Regain
Doctors suggest the mode of action of the drugs explains the amplified weight return.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a natural hormone 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 body to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also reduce sensitivity to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement means appetite is uncontrolled, making excessive eating a significant risk."
A Lifelong Disease?
The NHS recommend the injections for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts argue that, considering the likelihood of relapse, the treatment should be considered life-long.
This view is supported by drug manufacturers, who note that the findings "emphasize the long-term character of obesity," comparing it to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Testimonies
Individuals who have come off the medication explain a intense return of hunger.
"It felt as if something activating and you become ravenous," recalled an individual.
This challenge is exacerbated if users have not established lasting dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Significant Adoption
Survey data indicate that millions of people in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with interest remaining high.
- Adoption is more common among females than males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest usage rates.
- Many obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Finally, clinicians caution that while these medications are powerful agents for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent fix and lasting health benefits likely depends on ongoing lifestyle support.
