Fresh analysis suggests that patients who come off blockbuster slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain reduced body mass much more quickly than those who stop traditional diet and exercise programs.
Published data in a prominent health publication points out that while obese individuals often shed a large proportion of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the weight is regained at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"People using these treatments need to be cognizant of the danger of rapid weight regain when the medication is stopped," stated researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain means a return to starting weight in about one and a half years.
Weighing Approaches
The research, which looked at 37 of studies involving thousands of participants, compared the effects of these new drugs with older methods.
The team point out that individuals who lose weight through diet and exercise usually have a more gradual creep back—around 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Understanding the Quick Rebound
Doctors propose the mode of action of the injections accounts for the heightened regain.
The injections copy a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 levels far above than the body's typical production might result in the body to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and may also reduce responsiveness to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Stopping of this medication leads to appetite is uncontrolled, making overeating a significant risk."
A Lifelong Issue?
Health authorities suggest the jabs for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts argue that, given the significant potential of relapse, the therapy should be considered life-long.
This opinion is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who note that the findings "emphasize the persistent nature of excess weight," akin to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
User Experiences
People who have stopped the jabs describe a sudden resurgence of cravings.
"It was like a trigger activating and you become ravenous," said one woman.
This challenge is exacerbated if patients have not developed sustainable dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Widespread Use
Figures show that a significant number of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with demand continuing to grow.
- Use is greater among females than men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
In conclusion, experts emphasize that while the jabs are powerful agents for shedding pounds, they are not a magic fix and maintained weight loss likely depends on integrated lifestyle support.
