Fresh analysis indicates that individuals who come off popular slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on reduced body mass much more quickly than those who halt traditional lifestyle plans.
Published data in a leading health publication points out that while overweight people often shed a large proportion of their body weight while on the medication, the mass comes back at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"People buying such treatments should be aware of the risk of fast rebound weight gain when the therapy concludes," stated lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain implies a reversion to original weight within about 18 months.
Comparing Approaches
The study, which looked at dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the effects of GLP-1 agonists with conventional dieting.
Researchers emphasize that people who shed pounds through dieting typically experience a slower creep back—around 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
The Reason for the Fast Regain
Experts suggest the mode of action of the jabs accounts for the amplified rebound.
The injections imitate a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production may cause the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and could diminish sensitivity to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Discontinuation of this medication means appetite is uncontrolled, making binge eating a significant risk."
An Ongoing Disease?
Medical guidelines recommend the injections for people with weight-linked health risks, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
Professionals contend that, due to the likelihood of relapse, the therapy might need to be life-long.
This opinion is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the results "emphasize the long-term nature of excess weight," akin to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
User Accounts
Individuals who have stopped the medication report a sudden resurgence of hunger.
"I experienced a trigger that goes on and you become extremely hungry," described a patient.
This challenge is compounded if individuals have not established lasting lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Growing Adoption
Recent estimates indicate that a significant number of people in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with interest continuing to grow.
- Use is more common among women than men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- Many access the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, researchers emphasize that while the jabs are potent agents for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent fix and lasting health benefits hinges on integrated behavioural changes.
