A recent study suggests that people who come off popular slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain shed pounds much more quickly than those who stop conventional lifestyle regimens.
Findings released in a leading medical journal shows that while obese people frequently drop about a fifth of their total mass while on the medication, the mass is regained at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"People using such treatments need to be aware of the risk of rapid rebound weight gain when the therapy is stopped," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain implies a reversion to original weight in about one and a half years.
Weighing Treatments
The analysis, which reviewed dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the effects of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
Researchers point out that individuals who shed pounds through dieting generally have a slower creep back—around 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
The Reason for the Rapid Regain
Experts propose the way of the injections is key to understanding the amplified regain.
The injections imitate a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production could lead to the system to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and could reduce responsiveness to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Withdrawal of this medication leads to hunger is uncontrolled, making overeating a significant risk."
A Lifelong Condition?
The NHS advise the injections for people with obesity-related health risks, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals argue that, considering the significant potential of weight regain, the treatment might need to be long-term.
This opinion is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the results "highlight the long-term character of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
Patient Testimonies
Individuals who have come off the medication report a powerful resurgence of hunger.
"It felt as if a trigger flipping and I was suddenly extremely hungry," described a patient.
This challenge is compounded if users have not adopted sustainable dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Widespread Interest
Recent estimates show that a significant number of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with demand being substantial.
- Use is greater among women compared to males.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, clinicians emphasize that while the jabs are powerful agents for weight loss, they are not a standalone cure and maintained weight loss relies on integrated lifestyle support.
