Fresh analysis reveals that patients who stop using blockbuster slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on shed pounds much more quickly than those who end conventional lifestyle programs.
Published data in a prominent medical journal points out that while obese people frequently drop about a fifth of their body weight while on the medication, the mass comes back at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"People using these drugs should be aware of the risk of fast weight regain when the therapy ends," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain implies a reversion to starting mass in about 18 months.
Weighing Approaches
The analysis, which examined 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the effects of these new drugs with older methods.
Scientists point out that people who shed pounds through dieting usually see a less rapid weight regain—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
The Reason for the Rapid Rebound
Doctors suggest the mechanism of the injections accounts for the accelerated regain.
GLP-1 drugs copy a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate hunger.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than normal could lead to the body to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also reduce responsiveness to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Discontinuation of this medication means appetite is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating much more probable."
A Chronic Condition?
Health authorities recommend the jabs for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
Many experts contend that, given the significant potential of weight regain, the therapy should be considered long-term.
This opinion is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the findings "highlight the long-term character of obesity," comparing it to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
User Testimonies
Users who have discontinued the medication report a powerful resurgence of hunger.
"It felt as if something activating and I was suddenly ravenous," said an individual.
This difficulty is exacerbated if users have not adopted sustainable lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Significant Interest
Survey data suggest that a significant number of people in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with interest being substantial.
- Adoption is higher among women compared to men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Finally, researchers stress that while the jabs are effective tools for weight loss, they are not a magic solution and maintained weight loss hinges on combined lifestyle changes.
