New research reveals that individuals who stop using blockbuster slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain shed pounds at a significantly accelerated pace than those who end traditional lifestyle plans.
Published data in a major medical journal shows that while overweight individuals can lose about a fifth of their body weight while using the jabs, the mass comes back at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Users buying such treatments must be aware of the danger of fast weight regain when the medication ends," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery implies a reversion to original weight within about 18 months.
Weighing Treatments
The study, which examined 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the effects of these new drugs with older methods.
Scientists emphasize that people who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone generally experience a more gradual weight regain—around 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
Explaining the Quick Rebound
Experts suggest the mode of action of the injections accounts for the heightened weight return.
These medications imitate a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates hunger.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone levels several times higher than the body's typical production might result in the system to produce less of its own natural hormone, and could lessen sensitivity to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Withdrawal of this GLP-1 'fix' results in hunger is uncontrolled, making binge eating a significant risk."
A Lifelong Condition?
Health authorities advise the injections for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians argue that, due to the significant potential of relapse, the treatment might need to be life-long.
This opinion is echoed by drug manufacturers, who note that the results "emphasize the chronic nature of obesity," similar to managing diseases like hypertension.
User Accounts
People who have stopped the medication report a sudden resurgence of hunger.
"I experienced a trigger flipping and I was suddenly ravenous," said a patient.
This difficulty is compounded if patients have not established lasting lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Widespread Use
Survey data indicate that a significant number of people in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with interest continuing to grow.
- Adoption is higher among females compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, researchers caution that while these medications are potent agents for weight loss, they are not a magic solution and maintained weight loss relies on ongoing lifestyle management.
