A recent study suggests that people who come off blockbuster slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain lost weight at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop conventional diet and exercise regimens.
Findings released in a prominent health publication demonstrates that while overweight people frequently drop about a fifth of their total mass while on the medication, the mass is regained at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Individuals using these drugs should be cognizant of the risk of fast rebound weight gain when the treatment is stopped," stated researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain suggests a reversion to starting mass in about one and a half years.
Comparing Treatments
The analysis, which examined 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the results of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
Scientists point out that individuals who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone generally experience a less rapid creep back—around 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
The Reason for the Rapid Regain
Experts propose the mechanism of the injections is key to understanding the accelerated regain.
These medications imitate a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 concentrations far above than the body's typical production may cause the body to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and may also diminish responsiveness to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement results in appetite is no longer kept in check, making overeating far more likely."
A Chronic Condition?
Health authorities advise the jabs for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts contend that, due to the high risk of relapse, the treatment should be considered life-long.
This view is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who say that the findings "highlight the persistent character of obesity," akin to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
User Accounts
Users who have stopped the jabs describe a powerful return of appetite.
"It was like something flipping and you're instantly ravenous," described a patient.
This challenge is exacerbated if patients have not developed permanent dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Significant Adoption
Recent estimates suggest that millions of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with interest continuing to grow.
- Adoption is greater among females compared to males.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, experts emphasize that while the jabs are potent agents for weight loss, they are not a standalone solution and maintained weight loss hinges on combined lifestyle management.
