New research reveals that individuals who come off popular slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on lost weight far faster than those who halt traditional lifestyle plans.
Findings released in a prominent medical journal points out that while obese people can lose a large proportion of their total mass while on the medication, the mass is regained at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"People using these drugs should be informed of the potential of fast weight regain when the medication is stopped," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery implies a reversion to original weight within about 18 months.
Comparing Therapies
The research, which looked at 37 of studies involving thousands of patients, compared the effects of GLP-1 agonists with older methods.
Scientists emphasize that people who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone usually experience a less rapid creep back—approximately 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
Explaining the Rapid Rebound
Experts believe the mode of action of the jabs explains the amplified rebound.
The injections copy a natural hormone called GLP-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone levels several times higher than the body's typical production might result in the body to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and could reduce sensitivity to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Stopping of this medication means appetite is uncontrolled, making overeating much more probable."
A Chronic Disease?
The NHS suggest the jabs for people with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
Professionals argue that, considering the likelihood of weight regain, the treatment might need to be life-long.
This view is supported by drug manufacturers, who note that the findings "emphasize the persistent character of obesity," akin to managing diseases like hypertension.
User Experiences
Users who have come off the medication describe a intense return of hunger.
"I experienced something flipping and you become ravenous," described an individual.
This difficulty is exacerbated if individuals have not developed lasting lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Growing Use
Recent estimates suggest that millions of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with interest being substantial.
- Adoption is higher among females compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, clinicians stress that while GLP-1 drugs are potent tools for shedding pounds, they are not a magic fix and lasting health benefits hinges on ongoing lifestyle changes.
