New research reveals that people who stop using new slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy tend to recover lost weight at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop conventional diet and exercise regimens.
Research printed in a leading health publication shows that while overweight individuals can lose about a fifth of their total mass while on the medication, the weight is regained at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"People purchasing such drugs must be cognizant of the risk of fast rebound weight gain when the medication concludes," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery implies a return to pre-treatment mass within about 18 months.
Comparing Approaches
The analysis, which looked at 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the outcomes of the injectable medications with older methods.
The team point out that people who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone generally experience a more gradual weight regain—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Explaining the Fast Rebound
Experts suggest the mode of action of the injections explains the heightened weight return.
These medications imitate a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Long-term administration of the hormone levels several times higher than the body's typical production could lead to the body to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and could reduce sensitivity to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Withdrawal of this medication leads to hunger is no longer kept in check, making binge eating far more likely."
A Chronic Condition?
The NHS suggest the jabs for people with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts say that, considering the likelihood of weight regain, the therapy should be considered ongoing.
This perspective is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the results "underscore the long-term character of obesity," similar to managing conditions like hypertension.
Patient Accounts
People who have discontinued the jabs describe a sudden resurgence of cravings.
"It was like a trigger flipping and I was suddenly ravenous," recalled an individual.
This challenge is worsened if individuals have not established lasting dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Significant Interest
Survey data indicate that a significant number of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with desire being substantial.
- Use is greater among women compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, clinicians stress that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful tools for weight loss, they are not a magic solution and long-term success hinges on combined behavioural management.
