Fresh analysis suggests that patients who come off popular slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on reduced body mass far faster than those who stop traditional lifestyle regimens.
Published data in a prominent health publication demonstrates that while obese people can lose about a fifth of their body weight while on the medication, the weight is regained at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Individuals buying such treatments must be informed of the potential of rapid weight regain when the treatment is stopped," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery suggests a return to original mass in about 18 months.
Comparing Treatments
The study, which looked at dozens of trials involving thousands of patients, contrasted the effects of these new drugs with other pills.
Researchers emphasize that individuals who lose weight through dieting usually have a more gradual weight regain—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Understanding the Fast Rebound
Nutrition scientists suggest the mechanism of the drugs explains the heightened rebound.
The injections imitate a natural hormone called GLP-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production could lead to the body to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and may also lessen responsiveness to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Withdrawal of this GLP-1 'fix' leads to appetite is unsuppressed, making excessive eating far more likely."
An Ongoing Issue?
The NHS suggest the injections for people with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians contend that, given the likelihood of relapse, the therapy is often long-term.
This perspective is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the findings "underscore the persistent character of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like hypertension.
User Accounts
People who have stopped the jabs report a powerful resurgence of hunger.
"It was like a switch that goes on and you become ravenous," said an individual.
This challenge is compounded if patients have not developed permanent lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Significant Use
Figures indicate that millions of people in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with interest remaining high.
- Use is higher among women compared to men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- Many access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, clinicians emphasize that while the jabs are effective tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent cure and long-term success hinges on ongoing behavioural changes.
