Fresh analysis reveals that individuals who come off popular slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on lost weight at a significantly accelerated pace than those who end traditional diet and exercise regimens.
Research printed in a prominent medical journal points out that while obese individuals frequently drop substantial amounts of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the weight returns at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Individuals buying these drugs should be aware of the danger of fast rebound weight gain when the treatment is stopped," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain means a reversion to pre-treatment mass within about a year and a half.
Weighing Therapies
The research, which examined 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the effects of these new drugs with other pills.
Researchers emphasize that people who shed pounds through diet and exercise usually see a slower creep back—approximately 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
Explaining the Quick Regain
Doctors believe the mode of action of the injections explains the accelerated regain.
These medications copy a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of the hormone concentrations far above than the body's typical production might result in the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also lessen sensitivity to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Withdrawal of this GLP-1 'fix' leads to hunger is uncontrolled, making excessive eating much more probable."
A Lifelong Disease?
Health authorities suggest the jabs for individuals with weight-linked health risks, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians contend that, given the likelihood of weight regain, the therapy is often ongoing.
This opinion is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the findings "highlight the chronic character of obesity," comparing it to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
User Accounts
People who have stopped the medication report a intense resurgence of appetite.
"It was like a trigger flipping and you become extremely hungry," said a patient.
The struggle is compounded if individuals have not adopted lasting lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Widespread Use
Figures show that millions of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with interest continuing to grow.
- Use is higher among females compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Finally, experts caution that while the jabs are effective agents for shedding pounds, they are not a magic solution and long-term success relies on integrated behavioural support.
