Fresh analysis indicates that patients who come off new slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on lost weight much more quickly than those who end traditional lifestyle programs.
Findings released in a leading medical journal points out that while obese individuals frequently drop substantial amounts of their body weight while on the medication, the mass is regained at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"Individuals buying such drugs need to be cognizant of the potential of rapid rebound weight gain when the therapy is stopped," stated researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery means a reversion to starting mass within about one and a half years.
Comparing Approaches
The study, which examined dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the effects of the injectable medications with older methods.
The team point out that individuals who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone generally experience a more gradual creep back—perhaps 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
The Reason for the Rapid Regain
Nutrition scientists suggest the mode of action of the jabs accounts for the accelerated weight return.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls appetite.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 concentrations far above than the body's typical production may cause the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and may also lessen sensitivity to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' leads to hunger is unsuppressed, making overeating much more probable."
A Chronic Condition?
The NHS suggest the injections for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians argue that, given the significant potential of weight regain, the treatment should be considered ongoing.
This view is supported by drug manufacturers, who say that the findings "underscore the chronic character of excess weight," akin to managing conditions like diabetes.
Patient Accounts
People who have come off the medication explain a sudden return of appetite.
"It was like a switch that goes on and you become starving," recalled a patient.
This difficulty is compounded if patients have not adopted lasting lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Widespread Interest
Recent estimates suggest that millions of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with demand continuing to grow.
- Adoption is higher among females than men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
In conclusion, experts stress that while these medications are powerful tools for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone fix and lasting health benefits likely depends on ongoing lifestyle management.
