A recent study reveals that people who discontinue popular slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on lost weight much more quickly than those who stop traditional diet and exercise programs.
Published data in a prominent medical journal shows that while obese people often shed a large proportion of their total mass while on the medication, the mass comes back at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"Individuals buying such treatments need to be cognizant of the potential of quick rebound weight gain when the therapy is stopped," stated researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery means a return to pre-treatment weight in about 18 months.
Analyzing Approaches
The analysis, which reviewed 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the effects of these new drugs with older methods.
Researchers emphasize that people who lose weight through dieting usually see a slower creep back—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Understanding the Quick Rebound
Doctors suggest the way of the jabs explains the amplified regain.
The injections copy a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of the hormone levels far above than normal may cause the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and could lessen sensitivity to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Withdrawal of this GLP-1 'fix' leads to hunger is uncontrolled, making overeating a significant risk."
A Chronic Issue?
Medical guidelines recommend the jabs for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals say that, due to the high risk of relapse, the therapy is often life-long.
This perspective is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the results "highlight the persistent character of obesity," akin to managing diseases like hypertension.
User Experiences
Users who have come off the medication describe a powerful return of appetite.
"It was like a switch that goes on and you become starving," recalled a patient.
The struggle is worsened if individuals have not established permanent lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Widespread Adoption
Figures indicate that millions of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with interest continuing to grow.
- Adoption is higher among females compared to men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many access the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, researchers emphasize that while these medications are powerful agents for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone fix and lasting health benefits likely depends on integrated behavioural changes.
