Fresh analysis indicates that patients who come off new slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain reduced body mass far faster than those who stop traditional diet and exercise programs.
Published data in a leading health publication points out that while obese individuals can lose a large proportion of their body weight while using the jabs, the weight is regained at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"People buying these drugs should be informed of the risk of quick weight regain when the treatment is stopped," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain means a reversion to original weight in about a year and a half.
Weighing Approaches
The research, which examined 37 of studies involving thousands of patients, contrasted the outcomes of these new drugs with older methods.
Scientists point out that individuals who lose weight through diet and exercise usually experience a more gradual creep back—around 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
Explaining the Quick Regain
Nutrition scientists believe the way of the injections is key to understanding the amplified rebound.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls hunger.
"Long-term administration of the hormone concentrations far above than normal might result in the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and could reduce responsiveness to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Stopping of this medication means appetite is no longer kept in check, making overeating much more probable."
A Lifelong Disease?
Medical guidelines advise the jabs for individuals with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
Professionals argue that, considering the significant potential of relapse, the therapy might need to be life-long.
This perspective is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the findings "underscore the persistent nature of excess weight," similar to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
Patient Testimonies
People who have stopped the medication describe a powerful return of hunger.
"It felt as if a trigger that goes on and I was suddenly extremely hungry," described an individual.
This difficulty is compounded if individuals have not adopted lasting lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Significant Adoption
Recent estimates indicate that a significant number of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with interest being substantial.
- Use is higher among females compared to men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, researchers emphasize that while the jabs are potent agents for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone fix and lasting health benefits hinges on ongoing behavioural changes.
