A recent study indicates that patients who discontinue new slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on lost weight far faster than those who halt traditional diet and exercise plans.
Findings released in a prominent health publication points out that while overweight people frequently drop about a fifth 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 purchasing such medications must be informed of the risk of rapid rebound weight gain when the medication concludes," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain implies a return to starting weight within about a year and a half.
Weighing Approaches
The study, which reviewed dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the outcomes of the injectable medications with other pills.
Scientists emphasize that people who shed pounds through dieting usually experience a more gradual weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Explaining the Fast Regain
Nutrition scientists suggest the way of the injections is key to understanding the accelerated regain.
GLP-1 drugs copy a natural hormone called GLP-1, which helps regulate hunger.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 concentrations far above than the body's typical production might result in the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and may also diminish sensitivity to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' results in hunger is uncontrolled, making overeating much more probable."
An Ongoing Issue?
The NHS recommend the jabs for individuals with weight-linked health risks, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians contend that, given the likelihood of weight regain, the treatment might need to be life-long.
This view is echoed by drug manufacturers, who note that the findings "underscore the long-term character of obesity," comparing it to managing conditions like diabetes.
User Accounts
Individuals who have discontinued the jabs explain a powerful return of hunger.
"It felt as if a switch activating and you become ravenous," described one woman.
The struggle is exacerbated if individuals have not developed sustainable dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Widespread Use
Recent estimates suggest that millions of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with interest being substantial.
- Use is higher 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 public health services.
In conclusion, researchers caution that while the jabs are potent agents for weight loss, they are not a magic fix and lasting health benefits likely depends on ongoing lifestyle support.
