Fresh analysis indicates that patients who stop using popular slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on shed pounds much more quickly than those who halt conventional lifestyle regimens.
Findings released in a major health publication shows that while obese people often shed a large proportion of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the mass comes back at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"People purchasing such medications need to be cognizant of the danger of rapid rebound weight gain when the medication is stopped," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain means a reversion to original mass in about one and a half years.
Weighing Treatments
The research, which examined 37 of trials involving thousands of participants, contrasted the outcomes of these new drugs with older methods.
Researchers emphasize that individuals who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone typically have a less rapid weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
The Reason for the Quick Rebound
Doctors propose the mechanism of the drugs is key to understanding the accelerated weight return.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates appetite.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production may cause the system to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and may also reduce responsiveness to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' leads to appetite is uncontrolled, making overeating much more probable."
A Chronic Condition?
Medical guidelines suggest the jabs for individuals with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals argue that, due to the likelihood of relapse, the therapy might need to be life-long.
This view is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the findings "highlight the long-term character of obesity," similar to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
User Experiences
Users who have come off the jabs describe a sudden return of hunger.
"It felt as if a trigger that goes on and you're instantly extremely hungry," said an individual.
This challenge is exacerbated if patients have not adopted lasting dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Significant Interest
Survey data suggest that a significant number of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with demand remaining high.
- Use is more common among females compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, researchers stress that while these medications are powerful agents for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone solution and maintained weight loss likely depends on combined lifestyle support.
