Fresh analysis suggests that people who stop using new slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain shed pounds much more quickly than those who halt traditional lifestyle plans.
Findings released in a major medical journal demonstrates that while obese individuals frequently drop a large proportion of their body weight while using the jabs, the weight comes back at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"People buying such drugs need to be cognizant of the danger of fast rebound weight gain when the medication ends," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain suggests a reversion to starting weight in about a year and a half.
Analyzing Therapies
The analysis, which reviewed dozens of studies involving thousands of patients, compared the results of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
Scientists point out that people who shed pounds through dieting generally see a more gradual weight regain—around 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Understanding the Rapid Regain
Doctors suggest the mechanism of the injections accounts for the amplified regain.
The injections imitate a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 levels several times higher than normal might result in the body to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also diminish sensitivity to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Discontinuation of this GLP-1 'fix' leads to appetite is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating much more probable."
An Ongoing Disease?
The NHS advise the jabs for people with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians say that, considering the significant potential of weight regain, the therapy might need to be ongoing.
This perspective is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the findings "emphasize the persistent nature of obesity," comparing it to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Accounts
People who have stopped the medication report a powerful return of hunger.
"I experienced a trigger activating and you become ravenous," recalled one woman.
This challenge is exacerbated if users have not established permanent lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Significant Interest
Survey data indicate that millions of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with demand being substantial.
- Use is greater among females than males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, researchers caution that while the jabs are potent agents for shedding pounds, they are not a magic fix and long-term success hinges on ongoing lifestyle support.
