New research indicates that individuals who come off popular slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on shed pounds at a significantly accelerated pace than those who end traditional diet and exercise programs.
Research printed in a major health publication points out that while overweight people can lose substantial amounts of their total mass while on the medication, the mass returns at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Individuals using these medications should be informed of the danger of rapid weight regain when the treatment ends," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery means a return to original mass within about a year and a half.
Comparing Treatments
The study, which looked at 37 of trials involving thousands of patients, compared the results of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
Researchers emphasize that individuals who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone generally see a slower weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Understanding the Fast Rebound
Nutrition scientists believe the mode of action of the jabs is key to understanding the heightened weight return.
GLP-1 drugs copy a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates hunger.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 concentrations far above than normal might result in the body to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and may also lessen responsiveness to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement leads to appetite is uncontrolled, making excessive eating a significant risk."
An Ongoing Disease?
Medical guidelines advise the injections for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts say that, due to the significant potential of weight regain, the therapy should be considered long-term.
This opinion is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the results "emphasize the chronic character of obesity," akin to managing conditions like diabetes.
User Testimonies
Users who have stopped the medication describe a sudden return of hunger.
"I experienced a trigger activating and I was suddenly starving," described an individual.
The struggle is worsened if individuals have not adopted lasting lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Significant Interest
Survey data suggest that millions of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with interest remaining high.
- Adoption is greater among women than men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Finally, experts caution that while these medications are potent tools for weight loss, they are not a standalone solution and maintained weight loss likely depends on combined lifestyle changes.
