A recent study reveals that people who discontinue popular slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain lost weight much more quickly than those who end conventional diet and exercise plans.
Findings released in a leading health publication shows that while overweight people often shed substantial amounts of their total mass while on the medication, the mass comes back at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"People purchasing these drugs need to be aware of the potential of rapid rebound weight gain when the therapy concludes," stated researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain means a reversion to pre-treatment mass in about a year and a half.
Analyzing Treatments
The study, which looked at dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the effects of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
The team point out that people who lose weight through dieting generally experience a more gradual creep back—approximately 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
Understanding the Rapid Regain
Nutrition scientists suggest the mechanism of the drugs is key to understanding the accelerated weight return.
These medications mimic a natural hormone called GLP-1, which moderates hunger.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 levels several times higher than the body's typical production could lead to the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also lessen sensitivity to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement results in appetite is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating much more probable."
A Lifelong Issue?
Medical guidelines advise the jabs for people with obesity-related health risks, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians say that, due to the high risk of relapse, the therapy might need to be life-long.
This opinion is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the findings "emphasize the long-term nature of obesity," comparing it to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Experiences
Users who have discontinued the jabs describe a sudden resurgence of appetite.
"I experienced a trigger that goes on and you're instantly ravenous," said an individual.
This challenge is exacerbated if patients have not established lasting lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Significant Interest
Figures show that millions of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with desire remaining high.
- Use is greater among women than men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest usage rates.
- Many access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, clinicians caution that while the jabs are potent agents for weight loss, they are not a permanent fix and long-term success likely depends on combined lifestyle management.
